Town of Culture Photo Launch 25/03/26

Saffron Walden Town Council (SWTC) is delighted to confirm its support for the town’s ‘Town of Culture 2028’ bid.

UK Town of Culture is a brand-new Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) competition. For the first time, DCMS is inviting towns across the UK to showcase original storytelling and accessible culture. The competition is targeted at all towns, whether small, medium or large.

In addition to the £3 million main prize and £250,000 finalist prizes, it is anticipated that winning will lead to significant, demonstrable outcomes, including a boost in civic pride, greater participation in cultural activities, and the formation of enduring community partnerships.

There is a simple Expression of Interest (EOI) phase which has been designed to keep costs to a minimum at the outset. DCMS will award bid development grants of £60,000 to each of the shortlisted towns which will then be invited to submit a full application.

Further information can be found here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-town-of-culture-2028-expression-of-interest/uk-town-of-culture-2028-expression-of-interest-guidance-for-bidders#ministerial-foreword

The EOI deadline is 31 March 2026 and several groups, partners and organisations across the town have indicated a strong desire to submit one.  It is appropriate for Saffron Walden Town Council to be the lead body in any submission, although a partnership approach is essential in calling upon the town’s rich diversity, and wide range of skills and experience.

SWTC would love you and your group to be a part of the official launch on Wednesday 25 February at 10am in the Market Square, where a photo will be taken as part of the marketing material for the town’s bid.

Please do forward this email to anyone else you know who may be interested in joining us!

If you are a member of a uniformed or constituted group, please feel free to wear your uniform, civic regalia or other appropriate wear representing your organisation.  It would be lovely for the photo to show the eclectic mix of groups and organisations in our great town, evidencing the richness and vitality of Saffron Walden’s heritage and culture.

We would appreciate if you could please confirm your attendance, by emailing:  mary@saffronwalden.gov.uk, and please confirm an approximate number of people attending from your organisation.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you on 25th February and joining us in this exciting opportunity for the town.