Barnstaple targets 'transformational' £3m UK Town of Culture award

Barnstaple Town Council has officially backed a bid for the town to become the UK Town of Culture 2028, entering a high-stakes competition that could bring millions of pounds in investment to North Devon.

The bid, launched under the rallying cry #BigUpBarny, sees the council partnering with community groups and local creatives to compete for a £3 million top prize.

The UK Government's inaugural Town of Culture competition is designed to celebrate towns that can tell a "unique story" and deliver an ambitious cultural vision. While the winner secures the multi-million pound windfall, runners-up are also set to receive £250,000 to help realise their cultural projects.

Supporters of the bid believe Barnstaple has the "raw potential" required to win. 

Daniel Argent, a director and founder of the Growforward Project, a community interest company based in nearby Chelfham focused on sustainable food and social growth, says the award is "game-changing."

Having worked in Hull during its transformational 2017 City of Culture year, Mr Argent told the Gazette that these awards are often given to "diamonds in the rough" rather than places already at their peak.

"The process can align lots of groups to share focus on the same outcomes and totally rejuvenate and reignite towns and cities," he said. "Barnstaple absolutely has what it takes."

The bid process has highlighted a unique cultural density in North Devon, with the district council supporting two separate entries. 

Barnstaple finds itself in friendly competition with the coastal town of Ilfracombe, which has also submitted an "equally passionate" bid.

Mayor of Barnstaple, Councillor Janet Coates, said the council was proud to work with the community to showcase the town's heritage.

"This bid is about bringing people together and celebrating everything our town has to offer, from our history and cultural events to the talent and passion within our community," she said.

For residents, the bid represents more than just a title; it is a chance to improve the future for the next generation.

Jess Taylor, a local resident raising a young family, said she is looking forward to seeing "what the power of our community can do.

Peter Buffery, who also lives in the town, noted that the opportunity would help "elevate" the many positive activities already happening in the area.

Shortlisted towns will receive £60,000 in development funding to flesh out their full bids. The successful town will follow in the footsteps of previous "City of Culture" winners, but as part of a new format specifically designed to recognise the distinct identity of UK towns.

The local bid group concluded: "Culture belongs to everyone, and each of us has a role in shaping what it becomes."