Cherwell District Council has teamed up with Banbury Town Council and the Quays Consortium to lodge an official expression of interest, making Banbury a candidate for the UK Town of Culture 2028 designation. The programme aims to honour and showcase the cultural and historical accomplishments of towns across the country.

David Hingley, who leads Cherwell District Council, said the authority alongside its collaborators would be putting forward Banbury’s case for the 2028 title.

The contest offers an opportunity to showcase Banbury’s diverse and historic character that sets it apart, while generating a legacy for future generations.

Culture already flourishes across Banbury through its outdoor market, active neighbourhood schemes, popular celebrations, grassroots creative and wellbeing projects, and youth sporting provisions. This bid will help draw more focus to the town, its inhabitants and their stories.

The successful applicant for UK Town of Culture 2028 will receive £3 million to deliver a half-year programme of cultural events and activities.

Banbury’s proposal will highlight what makes the town distinctive and explain how the scheme could boost involvement from local people, increase access to arts and heritage offerings, and allow communities to play a role in shaping the initiative and its long-term benefits.

The council is engaging with numerous stakeholders including Banbury Museum, The Mill Arts Centre, cultural organisations, businesses, and community groups to strengthen the submission and realise Banbury’s cultural ambitions.