Halton Borough Council has officially submitted an Expression of Interest for Widnes to become the UK Town of Culture 2028.
Inspired by the success of the flagship UK City of Culture, this competition being run by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport aims to spotlight the cultural contribution of towns to our national story.
The winning town will be awarded £3 million to deliver a cultural programme in 2028 of around six months.
Halton’s All roads lead to Widnes campaign celebrates all aspects of the Widnes story, from historic beginnings, including the Vikings, industry, West Bank Promenade/Spike Island, bridges, rugby league, and music heritage.
The funding would create a programme of activities, events, and touchpoints leading the public through the town from station to foreshore.
Thank you to everyone who completed the community consultation and to members of Cultivate Halton for their contributions – your ideas have helped shape the bid.
Shortlisted towns will be announced in spring, with the final winner revealed in early 2027.
For more information go to: https://hbcnewsroom.co.uk/town-of-culture-2028-bid-faqs/