Bootle, Merseyside, has formally entered the race to be named the first-ever UK Town of Culture in 2028. Sefton Council has formally nominated Bootle and submitted an Expression of Interest this month, aiming to boost local arts, tourism and community events through the competition’s prize funding.
The bid comes as main construction on the £20 million Bootle Strand redevelopment is scheduled to begin in early 2026. If the town wins the title, the Town of Culture funding would be used to support arts and community programming that helps turn the canal-side area into a more vibrant destination for visitors and residents.
The move follows the success of the Salt and Tar canal-side event space, which has already hosted major musical acts. According to GOV.UK, the new national competition is designed to help towns across the country celebrate their unique stories and draw investment.
Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said the authority is committed to delivering a new vision for the town centre. A shortlist of competing towns is expected in Spring 2026, with DCMS aiming to announce the final winner in early 2027.
While major building work takes place at the shopping centre, events linked to Salt and Tar are moving to temporary sites such as Lock & Quay for 2026 to keep momentum going. Supporters of the bid say it builds on Bootle’s growing cultural role in the Liverpool City Region.
