A COUNCIL has submitted its expression of interest to become UK City of Culture 2025 under the title Conwy 2025.
Conwy County Borough Council has made a formal submission and launched its online campaign for the prestigious competition, run by the UK Government Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) every four years.
Winning localities can experience a major boost in tourism from the UK and abroad, while the competition can also attract investment and businesses.
A council spokesperson said: "Conwy county is ambitious and dynamic. Constantly changing and evolving whilst still deeply connected to its communities, culture and heritage. A county full of talent, experience, opportunities and cultural awakenings.
"Conwy 2025, working with a cast of thousands, will co-produce a playful cultural programme with its communities, that celebrates Conwy county to the world stage. With a spirit of adventure connecting everyone who lives, works and visits, through spectacular landscapes, language, heritage and traditions.
"Utilising the transformational power of culture, Conwy 2025 will create a new model of respectful and sustainable tourism and bring long-lasting social and economic benefits to a spectacular destination."
Conwy will be the “flagship” town in the council’s expression of interest (EOI) in the scheme which would start from 2025.
The bid would use all the county’s historic assets such as UNESCO World Heritage Site Conwy Castle and the 13th century town walls, and contemporary assets such as Llandudno's Great Orme goats and Gwyrch Castle.
The award's expert advisory panel will be looking for applicants to “articulate a vision which uses culture to transform a place through social, cultural and economic regeneration, making it more attractive to live, work, visit and invest in”.
Charlie McCoubrey, leader of Conwy County Borough Council, said “Conwy 2025 will be the adventure of a lifetime. The county already has an unrivalled reputation for delivering world class events and being a world class destination. Conwy 2025 will create a spark within our communities which will lead to economic growth, wellbeing and connection.
“And as we prepare to launch a new Culture Strategy for Conwy County, bidding for the prestigious status as UK City of Culture 2025 is a tremendous opportunity we are more than ready to deliver.
“Not forgetting, Conwy 2025 will pioneer a community-driven approach. UK City of Culture is all about you, the residents, businesses and visitors of Conwy county - how culture can make a difference to you and your community”.
To find out more: Conwy2025.co.uk and follow us on @Conwy2025 on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter #Conwy2025
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here