Advisory event prepares Hull for Unesco City of Music bid

Research has been done about the economics of Hull's creative sector

An event will take place on Wednesday to discuss Hull's ambition to become a Unesco City of Music.

The scheme aims to promote cooperation "among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development".

Glasgow became the first UK city to be awarded the status in 2008, followed by Liverpool in 2015 and Belfast in 2021.

The event will hear stories from creative cities across the world and explain the application process.

Professor David Wilson, expert adviser to the UK Commission for Unesco on the development of creative cities, will discuss the "benefits and opportunities" the status could bring to Hull.

'Massive benefits'

There will also be a presentation of the results of research commissioned by the council into the economic impact of the city's music scene.

Bob Pritchard, Hull City Council's portfolio holder for culture and leisure, said: "Unesco status could have massive benefits for the city's already incredibly extensive music scene, with access to a network of almost 300 other cities worldwide, sharing cultural and creative ideas and knowledge.

"This is the first step in bidding to Unesco and we're really keen to ensure we have the backing of the people living here, especially those already engaged in local music."

The event takes place on Wednesday at 18:00 GMT at Social, Humber Street. Admission is free but tickets need to be booked in advance.