WORCESTER looks set to launch an ambitious bid to become the UK’s City of Culture in 2021.
The plan was unveiled by council bosses yesterday (Tuesday) as they aim to showcase the Faithful City’s rich and varied cultural past, present and future.
If successful, Worcester will follow in the footsteps of the two other winners of the title including the current holders Derry-Londonderry and the 2017 UK City of Culture, Hull.
Council chiefs feel the striking modern architecture of The Hive, Europe’s first university-public library and history centre, and the University of Worcester Arena, coupled with the Cathedral founded in 680 will provide a big boost for the bid.
Coun Adrian Gregson, leader of Worcester City Council, said: “Worcester’s past, present and future are steeped in rich and varied cultural traditions.
“We are totally committed to supporting the arts and creating more opportunities for local, national and international audiences to experience them in our city.”
The nationally acclaimed Three Choirs festival visits Worcester once every three years and last year choirs from across the globe were attracted to the first Worcester International Festival for Young Singers.
“Worcester has a proven track record of delivering high quality, well-attended events,” Coun Gregson added.
“The full programme of activities planned for 2014 and 2015 would provide a strong platform from which to launch our bid to be City of Culture 2021.”
Worcester also holds a special place in Civil War history, with both the first and last battles being fought in the city.
The City of Culture programme is led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and is used to transform communities and help grow artistic talent.
City councillors will discuss working with partners on a potential bid at their next Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, April 15.
If councillors vote in favour of setting up a bid package the council will then look to develop partnerships with organisations including Worcestershire County Council, Destination Worcestershire and the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership.
What do you think? Has our city got enough to be the UK City of Culture on 2021? E-mail us with your thoughts at [email protected].
