Residents in Beeston, Nottinghamshire, are being asked to share their ideas to help the town win the UK Town of Culture 2028 title. The competition has a total prize pot of £3.5 million, with the winning town receiving £3 million. A group of local volunteers and organisers is holding community sessions on 6 and 7 February 2026 to gather support and show national judges that the town is ready for the title.
According to GOV.UK, the winning town will receive £3 million to pay for a six-month calendar of events and arts projects. The award was created to give towns the same opportunities for funding and tourism usually reserved for much larger cities.
The bid is being led by local people including members of the Beeston & District Civic Society and other cultural groups. While Broxtowe Borough Council is supporting the entry, organisers say it is vital that the ideas come from residents rather than being driven solely by local government.
A written statement to Parliament confirms the total prize pot for the competition is £3.5 million. If Beeston is successful, organisers say the money could be used for projects such as new street art, large music events, and help for local shops and restaurants as part of a six-month programme in 2028.
BBC News has reported that nearby towns, including Kimberley, are also preparing bids, which makes demonstrating community support now important. Residents are encouraged to join the project as volunteers or by signing support pledges before the Expressions of Interest deadline on 31 March 2026.
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