Ludlow Town Council has been notified that its application for UK Town of Culture 2028 did not make the shortlist, despite receiving recognition from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport for the quality of its bid.
The competition attracted 398 applications nationally, with only 15 places selected for the shortlist. The council's application was praised for its care, ambition, and strong community involvement.
Community and Youth Involvement
Town Clerk Gina Wilding said the bid had reflected the "creativity, generosity, and determination" of the community. She noted that although Ludlow had not been shortlisted, the application process had been valuable in strengthening partnerships and amplifying youth voice across the town.
Youth participation was identified as a defining strength of Ludlow's bid. The town's commitment to young people continues through projects including the Summer Youth Festival, which gives young people a platform to shape cultural activity and express their creativity.
Ongoing Cultural Development
UK Town of Culture Chair Sir Phil Redmond CBE wrote to Ludlow acknowledging the strength of the application and encouraging the town to continue developing cultural work already underway.
Ludlow Town Council plans to build on the momentum created through the bid process by continuing to work with partners, young people, cultural organisations, and community groups to explore new opportunities for cultural engagement across the town. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport will offer guidance and support to applicants on developing cultural activity beyond the competition.