Bournemouth, Christchurch, Culture, Poole | Posted on July 10th, 2026 | return to news
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole fails in Town of Culture bid
Despite disappointment, BCP council has highlighted positive outcomes following the 2028 bid, citing strengthened cultural partnerships.
Although Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council has failed to make the shortlist for the 2028 UK Town of Culture, it says its bid has strengthened cultural partnerships.
Cllr Andy Martin, portfolio holder for Culture, Communications and Customer, said:
“Of course we’re disappointed not to have been shortlisted, but we’re incredibly proud of what this proposal represents. It has brought together partners and communities from across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole to tell a powerful story about our shared cultural identity.
“This process has reinforced the strength of our cultural offer and the importance of continuing to work together. We will build on this momentum to support local artists, grow opportunities for residents and ensure culture remains at the heart of our area.”
Helen Keall, executive director and joint CEO of Pavilion Dance South West and chairperson of the Cultural Compact, said: “Although we have not been successful this time, our commitment to using culture to bring the three towns of Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole together is undimmed.
“We are keen to harness the goodwill shown by artists, arts organisations and other stakeholders to develop a vibrant programme which brings our three towns together to celebrate our shared identity and foster a sense of belonging and pride in our rich cultural assets.”
Carol Maund, director of Bournemouth Emerging Arts Fringe (BEAF), said: “If the preparation of the bid provides the blueprint for the transformation of the cultural landscape in the BCP area, then it has been a very useful process.
“With this as a starting point, there is the potential to make progress with a vision that will create an outstanding future cultural programme for the town and region.”
Dougie Scarfe, CEO of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO), said: “As a world-class touring orchestra based in a town, we see first-hand how culture empowers lives and its wider impact on families and local communities.
“At BSO, we bring awe-inspiring wonder to primary school pupils, to residents keen to sing in their care homes, to the hands that will shake maracas in the stroke unit, and to the yet-to-be concertgoers that will make new friends in the concert hall.
“Whilst Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole haven’t been shortlisted for UK Town of Culture 2028, we are proud to be part of the area’s brilliant network of creative partners working throughout the year, to drive events that are authentic and bold and unite people within our local communities.”
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