Southampton named as UK City of Culture finalist
The club is delighted that Southampton has been named in the longlist of cities competing to be named the UK City of Culture in 2025.
Southampton was named alongside Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Bradford, Cornwall, County Durham, Derby, Stirling and Wrexham County Borough as a finalist for the prestigious title, that it is hoped would bring millions of pounds worth of investment to the city.
The news comes after Southampton Football Club declared its support for the bid earlier this year, and figures connected to the club, including Lawrie McMenemy MBE and club captain James Ward-Prowse, became Southampton 2025 ambassadors.
Claire Whitaker OBE, Southampton 2025 UK City of Culture Bid Director said: “We are delighted with the news today that Southampton has been chosen to go through to the next stage of the bid to be UK City of Culture 2025.
“The way that Southampton has come together to get behind our bid is unprecedented for our city, and I want to thank everyone for their belief and unwavering support. We now move forward with confidence and optimism to the next chapter of our story to become UK City of Culture in 2025.”
With the winner due to be announced next year, you can find out more about the city’s bid to become the 2025 UK City of Culture, including how you can get involved, by visiting the Southampton 2025 website.