North Shields announces plans to run for UK Town Of Culture status
North Tyneside Council has confirmed North Shields has begun the process to be considered for Town Of Culture status.
Announced back in October, the Town Of Culture competition would give additional funds to smaller areas which can not apply for City Of Culture status.
Applications for the titles opened on Wednesday, January 14 with three finalists to be named - one small, one medium and one large town, based on population.
The winner will be crowned UK Town of Culture 2028 and receive a £3 million prize. The two runners-up will each receive £250,000 to deliver elements of their bid, from refreshed community infrastructure to music festivals.
A statement from the council reads: “Work has begun on an Expression of Interest to put North Shields in the running for UK Town of Culture 2028, hot on the heels of the North Shields 800 anniversary celebrations.
“North Shields is a small town with a big personality that has punched above its weight ever since its founding in the 13th Century. It has a history rich in maritime, fishing, mining, railway and industrial success, achievements that have often put it on the national and world stage.
“Today it is a vibrant destination for arts and culture, attracting artists and creative people from across the country and beyond.”
It adds: North Shields will put forward a strong and distinctive case, co-ordinated by North Tyneside Council. It will build on the success of North Shields 800, an anniversary programme that brought together thousands of people across dozens of creative projects throughout 2025, with heritage activities and community events, exhibitions and murals, performances, parades and storytelling.”
Cllr Carl Johnson, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Culture and Economic Development, said: “Now we’ve had the full guidance for the UK Town of Culture 2028 competition, we can move forward with real momentum in preparing an expression of interest for North Shields.
“The programme is a real opportunity to use arts, culture and heritage to support regeneration and strengthen local pride. We know how much potential there is here with our rich cultural and heritage offer, active community organisations, and the strong identity and distinctive character of North Shields.
“The town has a compelling story to tell. North Shields Cultural Quarter, North Shields 800, and the partnerships already in place give us a strong foundation.
“Over the coming weeks we’ll be working with local groups, cultural organisations, businesses and residents to shape the expression of interest and make sure it reflects the town’s story and ambitions. Community involvement will be central to this.
“We’ll take the time to get this right, but we’re committed to putting North Shields in the strongest possible position as we move into the next stage of the process.”
The deadline for Expressions of Interest for UK Town of Culture 2028 is in March, with the shortlist of towns expected to be announced this Spring.