Second Hunts Town Enters Race for Town of Culture Title

The town council of Huntingdon has officially announced its bid to become the UK’s Town of Culture. The decision, made on March 4, marks the beginning of a collaborative effort between local organizations, including Huntingdon Town Council, BID Huntingdon First, and the Cromwell Museum.

Bid for Town of Culture

This joint effort aims to create and submit an Expression of Interest, which is the crucial first step in the bidding process. Local groups will engage with various stakeholders, such as arts and cultural organizations, performance groups, and community initiatives.

Artistic Focus

Huntingdon’s bid will emphasize its strengths in multiple artistic areas, notably:

• Music
• Theatre
• Visual Arts
• Dance

Cllr Amanda Norton, chair of the estates amenities and communities committee, expressed her excitement: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be stepping forward with this bid. This is a huge opportunity to celebrate everything that makes Huntingdon special, our heritage, our creativity, and our amazing community.”

Community Support

Paul Sweeney, CEO of BID Huntingdon First, shared the potential benefits of the Town of Culture program. He noted, “We see enormous potential for the program to bring fresh energy and opportunity into Huntingdon. This is a chance to celebrate the rich cultural activities that already exist and inspire creativity throughout our community.”

Stuart Orme, curator of the Cromwell Museum, also highlighted the importance of the bid. “The Cromwell Museum is rooted in Huntingdon’s cultural identity. We’re excited to help shape a bid that honors the town’s past while looking forward to its future,” he stated.

The Prize

The successful town will receive a substantial grant of £3 million to implement a vibrant cultural program in 2028. This funding will help cultivate local arts, create new opportunities, and enhance the community’s cultural landscape.