We’re still saying yes – but to all of North Lincolnshire

North Lincolnshire’s cultural journey will continue – despite not making the short for the UK Town of Culture.

A long-term programme celebrating local creativity, championing the area’s rich heritage, supporting artists and cultural organisations, and bringing more opportunities for people to experience and take part in culture is being launched.

Building on the momentum created through the Town of Culture bid, the council will turn the ideas, partnerships and enthusiasm generated over the past few months into lasting projects that celebrate North Lincolnshire’s unique identity and strengthen communities for years to come.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Of course we’re disappointed not to have made the shortlist, but our ambition has never been about one competition.

“What has inspired me most throughout this journey has been the people. Thousands of residents shared their ideas, while artists, performers, cultural organisations, community groups, schools and volunteers all stepped forward with one shared ambition – to celebrate everything that makes North Lincolnshire special.

“That was the point of winning the bid, so really, we’ve already won. We’ve built relationships, discovered new talent and created partnerships that simply didn’t exist before and we’ll continue working with those people to celebrate our history, champion our creativity and tell the stories that deserve to be heard.

“We’re still saying yes. Yes to our artists. Yes to our theatres, museums and heritage. Yes to our communities. Yes to investing in culture because it strengthens pride in place, creates opportunity and brings people together.

“The competition may be over, but our ambition certainly isn’t – we stared saying yes to Scunthorpe, but now we’re saying yes to every community in North Lincolnshire.”

Thousands of residents helped shape the bid by sharing ideas, celebrating local stories and showcasing the creativity that exists across North Lincolnshire.

They were joined by artists, performers, schools, community groups, businesses, volunteers and cultural organisations, all united by a shared ambition to celebrate the area.

That passion, those partnerships and the wealth of ideas generated throughout the process will now form the foundation of Cultural Futures, ensuring the momentum continues long after the competition has ended.

The Cultural Futures programme will build on everything created through the Town of Culture bid, turning the ideas, partnerships and enthusiasm generated into a long-term programme that celebrates North Lincolnshire’s heritage, supports local talent and creates new opportunities for residents and visitors to experience culture.