Littlehampton Town Council is pleased to announce that it will be submitting an official bid for UK Town of Culture 2028, a national initiative celebrating the unique identity, creativity and heritage of towns across the United Kingdom.

Inspired by the success of the UK City of Culture, the new UK Town of Culture competition aims to shine a spotlight on the unique contributions towns make to our national story.

The UK Town of Culture bid process focuses on three key areas: the story of the town, how a cultural programme would be designed, and how that programme would ultimately be delivered to create long-lasting impact for residents, communities and visitors. The winner will receive £3m to deliver a cultural programme in 2028. If successful at the initial stage, the town would be awarded £60,000 to support the development of a full UK Town of Culture bid.

To ensure the bid reflects the community, Littlehampton Town Council is inviting residents of all ages to help describe “the story of Littlehampton” – past, present and future.

Residents are encouraged to share their perspectives by reflecting on questions such as:

• What makes Littlehampton unique?
• What are you proud of?
• What should we celebrate or protect?
• How would you describe Littlehampton to someone who has never visited?

The bid will champion the great cultural offer that already exists in Littlehampton, including established venues and events such as the Museum, who coincidentally will be celebrating 100 years in 2028, alongside the town’s thriving independent venues, festivals and creative organisations. 

Speaking about the bid, Town Mayor, Councillor Alan Butcher, said: “Littlehampton has an incredibly special story to tell – from its seaside heritage and family friendly attractions to its strong community spirit and exciting cultural ambition. The UK Town of Culture competition gives us the opportunity to celebrate what makes Littlehampton distinctive. We want our bid to be shaped by the people who know the town best, and we’re encouraging everyone to get involved and help us write the next chapter.”

Chair of the Town Council’s Community Resources Committee, Councillor Freddie Tandy, added: “Our town is on the cusp of transformation. The investments from Premier Inn and the Harvester will change visitor numbers and further help improve the local economy. Recent projects such as the West Green splash pad and concessions enhance the visitor experience as does the work of organisations such as the Harbour Board with its annual Waterfront Festival celebrating our maritime heritage, Littlehampton Museum with its fabulous Project Time Machine boosting its social history collections and the work of local businesses whether through rejuvenating the weekly market or bringing activities to the town centre. There is a lot to celebrate and be proud of, we are ready to be the first UK Town of Culture.”

Residents can contribute their ideas and stories by: completing the online survey: https://www.littlehampton-tc.gov.uk/uk-town-culture-2028, commenting on the Town Council’s Facebook page.

The Council will be gathering feedback until 10 March and community insights will directly inform the narrative submitted as part of Littlehampton’s Town of Culture bid by 31 March.