Three cities in England and a market town in Wales are in the running to be named the UK City of Culture 2025. Southampton, Bradford, Durham, and Wrexham, the latter aiming for city status this year, are potential recipients of significant investment if selected.
Arts Minister Lord Stephen Parkinson highlighted the transformative influence of culture on towns and cities, emphasizing its role in fostering community development. He pointed to the success seen in this year’s host city, Coventry, which received over £172 million for various cultural initiatives.
The selection process, overseen by a panel led by Sir Phil Redmond, the creator of the TV show Brookside, involves visits to the shortlisted locations before making the final recommendation. Redmond emphasized the power of culture to drive economic and social progress, citing previous City of Culture winners like Derry-Londonderry, Hull, and Coventry.
The winner of the 2025 UK City of Culture title will be announced in May by Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries, with the competition taking place every four years.