On February 2, 2026, Peterborough City Council officially submitted an expression of interest to become the UK City of Culture 2029. This bid aims to bring more national investment, tourism, and jobs to Peterborough in Cambridgeshire.
The project is led by Councillor Shabina Qayyum and is supported by local MPs Andrew Pakes and Sam Carling. Several organisations are working together on the bid, including the Peterborough Cultural Alliance, Peterborough Positive, and Discover Peterborough.
Council officials confirmed that submitting this initial bid does not cost local taxpayers anything. The work is being handled by existing council staff and through support from local partner groups like the Inspire Education Group.
Residents recently had the chance to give their input on the city’s culture priorities during public events held from February 14 to 16, 2026. This included a pop-up consultation at the Queensgate Shopping Centre where people could help shape the future of the bid.
A longlist of cities competing for the title is expected to be announced by the government in late March 2026. If successful, the final winner of the competition will be revealed in late 2026.
