Town of Culture Outcome
The announcement of the UK Town of Culture 2028 shortlist marks the end of Melton Mowbray's journey in this stage of the competition, but not the momentum generated through the bid. Cllr Don Pritchett, Portfolio Holder for Planning Policy, Economic Growth and Town Centre, has issued the following statement.
"While we are naturally disappointed that Melton Mowbray has not been shortlisted for UK Town of Culture 2028, the process of developing our Expression of Interest has been hugely valuable and highlighted the strength, creativity and passion that already exists across our borough.
"The bid brought together cultural organisations, community groups, businesses, creatives and volunteers to explore what culture means to Melton Mowbray and how we can continue to celebrate the unique stories, traditions and experiences that define our town.
"Through this work we developed the concept of Melton Mowbray as the Nation's Dining Table, recognising not only our world-famous food heritage, but also the people, places, creativity and community spirit that make our borough special. The concept of the Nation's Dining Table was intended to reflect far more than food and drink. It was designed as a way of bringing together Melton's heritage, creativity, arts, music, culture, landscapes, communities and rural innovation under a single story that celebrates the people and places that make Melton unique. The bid highlighted the breadth of cultural activity taking place across the borough and sought to connect these strengths through a shared vision for the future."
"We would like to thank everyone who contributed their time, ideas and enthusiasm to the bid, including members of the Town Centre Partnership and cultural organisations such as Belvoir Big Band, The Melton Musical Theatre Company, Kick Up The Arts, Culture Club, Melton Band, Burrough Jazz, U3A, the 1940s Weekend team, Stockyard and Melton Gig Guide, alongside many other groups who shared their insight throughout the process. Their involvement helped demonstrate the wide range of cultural activity, talent and creativity that exists across Melton borough
"Most importantly, this work does not stop here. The partnerships, ideas and ambitions developed through the bidding process have created strong foundations that we can continue to build on. There is already a huge amount of cultural activity taking place across the borough, and we want to use this momentum to reach even more people, widen participation and encourage new voices to become part of Melton's cultural future.
"The Town of Culture postcard competition will continue and provides another opportunity for residents to share their vision of what makes Melton special and what it means to gather around the Nation's Dining Table. We will also be working with partners to explore new ways to celebrate our heritage, creativity and culture and encourage more people to get involved in shaping future projects and activities.
"Melton Mowbray has a strong cultural identity and an ambitious future. We will use this experience to continue developing our cultural offer, learn from the shortlisted towns and consider future opportunities as they arise. We congratulate the 15 shortlisted towns and wish them every success in the next stage of the competition."
"While we were not successful on this occasion, the process has reinforced our belief that Melton's cultural identity is built on much more than one theme. From heritage and arts to community events, music, performance, creativity, food, landscape and rural innovation, there is a wealth of activity taking place across the borough, and we remain committed to supporting and celebrating it."