Littlehampton Town Council would like to thank everyone who supported the town's bid for UK Town of Culture 2028.

While Littlehampton has not been shortlisted, the bid process has revealed something far more important – the extraordinary pride, passion and ambition that local people have for their town.

Residents, businesses, community organisations, young people, creative practitioners and volunteers all contributed to the bid through surveys and conversations. Their ideas, experiences and aspirations helped shape a vision that celebrated Littlehampton's rich heritage, vibrant communities and exciting future.

Throughout the process, people spoke passionately about what makes Littlehampton special. Residents highlighted the unique combination of river, sea and South Downs, the town's beautiful beaches, rich maritime heritage, distinctive architecture and thriving independent businesses. They celebrated the community spirit that runs through the town and the many organisations, volunteers and local groups that help make Littlehampton such a welcoming place to live, work and visit.

Feedback also highlighted pride in many of Littlehampton's best-loved landmarks and cultural assets, including the River Arun, seafront, harbour, Green, Windmill Theatre, Littlehampton Museum and Fort. Residents shared stories of the town's history, from shipbuilding and fishing to its links with 30 Assault Unit, while recognising the creativity, diversity and resilience that continue to shape Littlehampton today.

The bid process also reinforced the ambitions of local people. Many called for more cultural opportunities, greater support for young people, stronger community connections and continued investment in the places and organisations that matter most. Those ideas will not be forgotten.

Speaking about the outcome, Town Mayor Councillor Maralyn May said: “Naturally, we are disappointed not to have progressed to the next stage. However, we are incredibly proud of the bid we submitted and grateful to everyone who took part. The response we received demonstrated just how much pride people have in Littlehampton and how ambitious they are for its future. The feedback gathered throughout the process has created a valuable foundation for future work. We will continue to build on the ideas, partnerships and conversations that emerged, and we will look at how many of these aspirations can be woven into future projects, events and initiatives. Littlehampton has a proud history and an exciting future. This outcome will not discourage us. We will continue championing our town, celebrating our heritage, supporting creativity and exploring future opportunities to showcase everything that makes Littlehampton unique."

Littlehampton Town Council would like to thank everyone who contributed to the bid and helped tell the town's story.

The bid may have come to an end, but the pride, passion and belief shown throughout the process will continue to drive Littlehampton forward.

Littlehampton's story is still being written.

You can see which town's have been shortlisted on the official Competition page.