Hemel Hempstead bids to become first ever UK town of Culture
Hemel Hempstead will be bidding to become the first ever UK Town of Culture in 2028.
Dacorum Borough Council confirmed this afternoon that it was putting forward the town for international recognition.
Hemel Hempstead will be entered in the ‘large town’ category and will potentially claim £3 million if successfully awarded the title by the Government.
Funding of £60,000 goes towards every shortlisted town which advances past the first stage of the competition. Three finalists - one small, one medium and one large town - will be selected.
Whoever wins the overall competition, will receive £3 million to go towards arts projects and cultural events. Tring Town Council is also entering the small town category.
Dacorum Borough Council leader, Councillor Sally Symington, said: “The Town of Culture competition offers an amazing opportunity for us to bring to life the ambitions of our new ‘arts and culture Strategy’ and build upon our existing plans.”
The council also revealed today that it has produced a strategy to develop and improve the arts and cultural offerings in the town over the next four years.
Councillor Symington added: “Residents have told us they would love to see more creative and heritage activity in Hemel Hempstead, and more options for young people to engage within these areas. Artists and organisations want more opportunities to connect and build a creative community and engage in events such as our recent River of Light Parade.
“With Hemel Garden Communities and future growth, we want to build on Hemel’s story as a New Town- celebrating its 80th anniversary next year- and increase opportunities for everyone in our community to enjoy culture in their own town.”
Independent radio channel, Radio Dacorum, is assisting with the bid. Development manager at the station, Monica Callan, said: “At Radio Dacorum, we wholeheartedly support Hemel Hempstead’s Town of Culture bid, recognising the opportunity it brings to showcase our diverse range of communities, culture, and creativity. As the local radio station, we see and celebrate this every day.
“We are proud to champion the collaborations and talent across our town- from local theatres and grassroots musicians to cultural and faith-led community events.
“With emerging diversity organisations like Equal Voices helping to shape Hemel’s evolving cultural and creative landscape, we believe this bid represents a chance to build on that momentum.”