Wrexham’s hopes of being crowned UK City of Culture 2029 have taken a clear step forward. The county has secured a place on the longlist, alongside eight other locations from across the UK. It joins Blackpool, Inverness-Highland, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Portsmouth, Sheffield and Swindon at the next stage.
Notably, Wrexham stands as the only Welsh location bidding for the title. As a result, the bid offers a chance to showcase Welsh culture on a national stage. It also allows Wrexham to represent Wales and highlight its distinct identity.
Funding Boost and Next Steps
Each longlisted location will now receive £60,000 to develop a full bid. Previously, this support stood at £40,000, so the increase marks a welcome boost. Meanwhile, the competition continues to promise strong economic and social benefits.
Past host cities have attracted investment, increased visitor numbers and created jobs. Importantly, this marks Wrexham’s second attempt at the title. The town previously reached the shortlist for the 2025 competition.
What the Bid Could Deliver
According to the bid team, success could support grassroots music and sport. It could also strengthen infrastructure and improve daily life across the area. In addition, the bid aims to create opportunities for residents and workers. Ultimately, the goal is to make Wrexham an even better place to live, work and visit.
Amanda Evans, Culture Bid Director at Wrexham Community & Culture Trust, said, “We are delighted to make the longlist and are more driven than ever to win the UK City of Culture title for 2029.
“Winning the bid will help to secure a bright social and economic future for Wrexham, bringing new opportunities for people who live and work in the area, as well as supporting our arts and culture sector in more ways than ever before. This is a really, really exciting time for us, and we are committing everything over the next few months to put Wrexham on a global stage and show why we are worthy of winning the title.”
Strong Backing and National Context
Councillor Hugh Jones welcomed the news and praised the bid team’s efforts. He said, “We can now move forward with confidence as we begin to build the case for making Wrexham the UK’s cultural focal point in 2029. Wrexham has so much to offer, and the competition will provide a fantastic platform for us to showcase the county borough.”
The longlist was selected by an independent advisory panel. Sir Phil Redmond chaired the panel, with Claire McColgan serving as deputy chair.
Major Prize and Wider Opportunities
For the first time, the winning city will receive a confirmed £10 million prize. This funding will support a year of cultural activity rooted in local identity. Meanwhile, shortlisted locations that do not win will still benefit. Three places will each receive £125,000 to develop parts of their bid further.
At the same time, the new UK Town of Culture competition has attracted strong interest. More than 230 towns have already registered, with entries still open. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said, “For far too long, opportunity has not been shared equally across the country. I look forward to seeing what the nine longlisted places have in store as they progress in the competition.”
What Happens Next
Wrexham will now prepare a full application for submission by summer 2026. The final winner of UK City of Culture 2029 will be announced later this year. The successful city will follow Bradford, which won the title in 2025.
Previous winners have demonstrated lasting cultural and economic impact. As the process moves forward, Wrexham now has a clear opportunity to make its case. If successful, the bid could help shape the county’s future for years to come.
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