Stockport Council and partners explore UK Town of Culture bid

Stockport Council and partner organisations are exploring a bid to become the UK’s first Town of Culture, and are inviting local residents to help shape what a future bid could look like.

The national Town of Culture competition was announced in Autumn 2025, and will allow smaller towns across the UK to benefit in the same way as major cities have from the City of Culture competition.

In Stockport, the town continues to benefit from the legacy of its year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture in 2023-24, which saw cultural activity take place across neighbourhoods, town centre venues and public spaces.

A flagship legacy of this work is Stockroom, Stockport’s new creative and cultural hub in the heart of the town centre. Since opening in May last year, Stockroom has welcomed around 100,000 visits a month, inviting people of all ages to explore Stockport’s collections and archives, take part in creative activity, attend events and spend time in a welcoming civic space. With a year-round programme of inclusive events and activities, it has quickly become a focal point for cultural life in the borough, and was Highly Commended in Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce’s Building of the Year 2025 Award.

Against that backdrop, a successful bid to become UK Town of Culture would allow Stockport to build on proven success, deepen partnerships and open up even more opportunities for residents, creatives and communities across the borough. 

A bid would also create opportunities to attract external funding and investment into the borough. At a time when council finances are under pressure, national cultural programmes can help bring in new resources, partnerships and profile — supporting local ambition while maximising the impact of every pound spent. 

As plans develop, Stockport Council and its partners want residents to help shape what a future UK Town of Culture bid could look like. The council is keen to hear what people value about Stockport, what makes the borough distinctive, how culture is experienced in everyday life, what feels missing, and the activities, places and experiences that matter most to them. 

Residents are encouraged to share their views by completing this Engagement Form.

Cllr Roberts, Leader of Stockport Council, said:

?“Stockport’s transformation shows the power of culture to shape places and bring communities together. From our year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture to the opening of Stockroom,?we’ve?seen first-hand how creativity can energise our town and build pride across the borough.??Bidding for?UK Town of Culture is about taking that momentum even further, putting Stockport firmly on the national stage and setting out an ambitious vision for the future.”?

Darren Stannage, Company Manager at NK Theatre Arts, said:

“Culture in Stockport isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline. In a borough where many grow up in very different circumstances, access to the arts builds resilience, aspiration and pride in young people, creating spaces where background doesn’t define potential and confidence can flourish.

“Cultural organisations across the borough are already working hard to widen access and break down barriers. A UK Town of Culture award would help us reach more young people and ensure creativity continues to unite and inspire communities.”

Jacqui Wood, Chief Executive at Arc, said:

“For many of the people we support, taking part in creative activity is transformational – helping them to feel less isolated, build relationships and take positive steps with their mental health. Culture has a real role to play in developing a sense of belonging and supporting wellbeing across our communities. Placing it at the heart of Stockport’s future plans recognises the difference creative activity can make to people’s lives.”

Steve Oliver, Chair of Stockport Economic Alliance, said:

“A strong cultural offer plays an important role in shaping the kind of place where businesses can thrive. In Stockport, culture and regeneration are helping to create a town centre that attracts talent, supports innovation and strengthens confidence in the borough as a place to invest and do business.”