Barnstaple Pursues £3 Million UK Town of Culture Award for 2028

Barnstaple Town Council has officially launched a bid to be named the UK Town of Culture for 2028, a move that could attract significant investment to North Devon. The initiative, branded with the motto #BigUpBarny, aims to secure a £3 million prize, which would not only enhance the local economy but also elevate cultural initiatives within the community. This inaugural competition by the UK Government seeks to celebrate towns with unique narratives and ambitious cultural visions.

The council is collaborating with various community groups and local creatives to strengthen its proposal. While the winner will receive the top prize, runners-up will also benefit, with each receiving £250,000 to support their cultural projects. Proponents of Barnstaple’s bid are confident in the town’s potential, describing it as possessing the “raw potential” needed to win this competition.

Daniel Argent, the director and founder of the Growforward Project, a community interest company based in nearby Chelfham, believes that the award could be transformational for the area. Drawing from his experience in Hull during its successful 2017 City of Culture year, Argent noted that such awards often highlight “diamonds in the rough” rather than established cultural hubs. He stated, “The process can align lots of groups to share focus on the same outcomes and totally rejuvenate and reignite towns and cities,” adding, “Barnstaple absolutely has what it takes.”

Local Support and Community Engagement

The bid process has brought to light the unique cultural density of North Devon, with the district council also backing a separate entry from the coastal town of Ilfracombe. Mayor of Barnstaple, Councillor Janet Coates, expressed pride in collaborating with the community to showcase the town’s rich heritage. “This bid is about bringing people together and celebrating everything our town has to offer, from our history and cultural events to the talent and passion within our community,” she stated.

For many residents, the bid transcends mere recognition; it represents an opportunity to improve the future for subsequent generations. Local mother Jess Taylor, raising a young family, expressed her enthusiasm for the community’s potential, saying she looks forward to witnessing “what the power of our community can do.” Another resident, Peter Buffery, remarked that winning the award would help “elevate” the numerous positive activities already taking place in the area.

Shortlisted towns will receive £60,000 in development funding to refine their full bids. The successful town will join the ranks of previous “City of Culture” winners but will do so under a new format tailored to acknowledge the distinct identities of UK towns. The local bid group emphasized that “Culture belongs to everyone, and each of us has a role in shaping what it becomes.”

As Barnstaple moves forward in this competitive landscape, the community’s collective efforts could pave the way for a brighter cultural future, potentially transforming the town into a hub of creativity and engagement.