Backing Scunthorpe for UK Town of Culture 2028
Scunthorpe has entered the running to become UK Town of Culture 2028.
This isn’t about one big event – it’s about bringing more life onto our streets, parks and neighbourhoods, and creating opportunities for people to get involved.
This bid is about using culture in a practical way – to bring empty spaces back into use, support local creativity, and create more things to see and do across the town.
If successful, it could bring up to £3m of investment into Scunthorpe. But, just as important, is the chance to build something lasting with the people who live and work here.
This is just the start – your support and ideas will help shape what comes next. Click the button to show your support for Scunthorpe, and tell us what kind of things you would say yes to.
Why Scunthorpe?
Scunthorpe doesn’t always shout about itself, and we know we can be a bit of a joke.
Like many towns, we’ve faced challenges – but there’s also a strong sense of community, creativity and authenticity here.
This bid is about building on that, showcasing our resilience and pride, and showing what’s possible when people come together.
Read the full story behind our bid.
Show your support
Download and print out the A4-size Say Yes To Scunny ’28 poster Town of Culture and put it up in your workplace, in your window, in your car, on a community noticeboard – anywhere you can think of. Let’s show we’re building this bid together.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UK Town of Culture?
A competition launched by the Government earlier this year which awards the ‘UK Town of Culture’ to a town for one year – in this case, 2028.
What is the prize?
The winner gets £3m, two runners up receive £25,000 and other stand-out bids get £60,000. The money has to be spent on local culture.
What happens next?
The shortlist is expected to be announced this spring.
Who else is entering?
It’s a tough competition – more than 230 towns have put in a bid, including Grimsby, Sleaford, Skegness, Driffield, Scarborough and Beverley.
When will we find out if we have won?
The winner will be announced in early 2027
Some ideas already submitted by residents
