Gateshead targets Town of Culture bid

A North East local authority is setting out an ambitious cultural vision as it prepares to bid for a national title celebrating creativity, community and heritage.

Gateshead Council has revealed plans to pursue Town of Culture status for 2028, aiming to showcase the borough’s cultural strengths while building on a wider strategy to make arts and creativity accessible to everyone.

The bid follows a recent change in Government criteria allowing larger towns to apply for the title. 

Preparations are already well underway, building on more than 18 months of collaboration with community groups, freelancers and major cultural organisations across the borough.

The proposed bid aligns with a landmark year for Gateshead in 2028, which will mark both the 30th anniversary of the Angel of the North and the centenary of the Tyne Bridge.

Alongside the application, the council is developing a broader culture strategy focused on ensuring culture can be experienced across everyday spaces and communities.

The approach centres on celebrating Gateshead’s identity, supporting cultural activity across neighbourhoods and recognising the role creativity can play in boosting jobs, tourism and wellbeing.

Councillor Angela Douglas, cabinet member for culture, sport and tourism at Gateshead Council, said: “Our culture is shaped by our communities, our grassroots groups and our independent creatives, and together we’re building a cultural movement that reaches every neighbourhood.

“Applying to be Town of Culture is an audacious move by Gateshead, but it matches our spirit, ambition and pride.

“It’s a chance to shine a national spotlight on the people who make Gateshead such a special place.”

The draft culture strategy is expected to be considered by the council’s cabinet in the coming weeks as the borough continues shaping its long-term cultural ambitions.

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