Fylde Council rallies community bid effort for UK Town of Culture

Fylde Council is spearheading a borough-wide effort to compete for the prestigious UK Town of Culture 2028, with plans to submit a bid on behalf of Kirkham, while actively supporting other towns and parishes across Fylde as they develop their own proposals.

The competition, led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, offers £3 million of government investment to fund a yearlong celebration of arts, culture and community spirit. Expressions of interest must be submitted by 31 March 2026.

Fylde Council has been working proactively to make towns, parishes and community groups across the borough aware of the competition and what it could mean for their communities.

Following those conversations, Kirkham has formally asked Fylde Council to submit a bid on its behalf. St Annes Town Council and Lytham Town Council have also been in discussions and are each intending to put forward their own bids for their respective areas, with Fylde Council offering support and guidance where needed.

Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our communities, and we want to make sure as many areas of Fylde as possible can take advantage of it. We’re proud to be submitting a bid for Kirkham at their request, and equally proud to support other town and parish councils who are exploring bids of their own.

“Whether it’s through advice, resources or helping to shape a compelling case, we’re here to help. The £3 million prize could be transformational for whichever community wins it, and we believe Fylde has extraordinary stories to tell.”

Councillor Simon Newell, Chair of Lytham Town Council, said: "Lytham is, was and always will be a town of culture. This application for national recognition of this status reflects the views and aspirations of the people of Lytham and how they are seeking to develop the character and culture of our community "

Councillor Kelly Farrington, who is coordinating the Lytham bid, added: “The Lytham Town entry strongly reflects the culture and history of the town, harnessing it to help shape a positive future. The process is proving a positive and enjoyable one, because it is bringing organisations and venues across the town together.”

Councillor Karen Harrison, Mayor of St Annes on the Sea Town Council, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with local organisations, businesses, groups and individuals in submitting a community led bid for the UK Town of Culture 2028 competition. St Annes on the Sea recently celebrated its 150th birthday, and we feel this is a great opportunity to let the country know how special St Annes is.”

The Council is encouraging any other community groups, town or parish councils in Fylde that are interested in submitting a bid to come forward. Support is available to help shape expressions of interest ahead of the deadline.