UK City of Culture title would boost town, MP says

Ipswich's Labour MP, Jack Abbott, wants to see an official bid for City of Culture 2029

An MP said he wanted to see his town in the running to become UK City of Culture 2029 to help it "build a new future".

The government launched the 2029 contest on Thursday, and Labour MP for Ipswich Jack Abbott is encouraging its leaders to make a bid.

For the first time, there will be a cash prize of £10m for the winning location to help develop cultural activities and events.

Abbott said it was a "once-in-a-generation opportunity to show the country what Ipswich is made of" while Ipswich Borough Council described it as a "fantastic opportunity".

"A City of Culture bid will attract more visitors, investment and new jobs, while supporting and celebrating local artists, venues and organisations that make our town special," he said.

"It's about boosting opportunities, ambition, and pride too.

"Our town has so much talent. This competition gives us the chance to show that to the whole country, and I'm determined to make sure our story is heard."

Despite being a town, Ipswich is large enough to bid to become City of Culture

Bradford holds the 2025 title, while past winners include Hull and Londonderry.

The government is also offering all long-listed places £60,000 to help with the bidding process, and three areas that reach the shortlist but miss out on the title will receive £125,000 to take forward elements of their bids.

Abbott said he had worked with leaders to explore what the bid could mean for Ipswich, and further meetings were planned in the coming weeks.

Neil MacDonald, leader of the council, said the authority was committed to working to ensure the application reflected the "full breadth" of the town's cultural ambition.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for Ipswich," he said.

"We're proud of our cultural heritage and the incredible work happening across Ipswich's arts sector.

"We look forward to working closely with our partners to develop a strong bid that not only showcases Ipswich's creativity but also raises the town's profile nationally and beyond."