The wait goes on for Driffield as judges assess the applications for the first ‘Town of Culture’ competition.
Cllr Mark Blakeston, who led Driffield’s bid, shared an update he had received from the competition organisers.
It reads:
“Thank you for taking the time to submit an expression of interest to the UK Town of Culture 2028 competition. We are delighted by the energy and enthusiasm it has generated amongst towns. We previously told you that we would announce the shortlist in Spring. As a result of the exceptional response we have received, the expert advisory panel require additional time to assess all of the bids, and we will now announce the shortlisted towns by the end of July.”
In the East Riding, Pocklington, Bridlington and Beverley joined Driffield in submitting an entry. It’s thought over 200 towns around the UK did the same.
Towns that make it on to the shortlist will receive £60,000 to develop a full, detailed programme for their proposed 2028 Town of Culture.
Eventual runners up in three categories of small, medium and large towns (Driffield is a small town) will each receive £250,000 to deliver elements of their programmes while the overall winner will become the Town of Culture 2028 and receive £3m to spend on their programme.
You can still share ideas for Driffield, find out more or get involved by emailing TOC2028@driffieldtowncouncil.gov.uk
