The UK government has shortlisted 15 towns for the inaugural 'UK Town of Culture' competition, including Pontypridd, Birkenhead, and Isle of Bute.

The shortlist, announced by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (CMS), features a mix of larger and smaller towns, with each receiving a £60,000 grant to develop their bids.The competition, which runs alongside the UK City of Culture 2029, aims to highlight the cultural contributions of towns across the UK.Finalists must demonstrate how culture can celebrate their communities, attract investment, and showcase storytelling.

Three winners—small, medium, and large towns—will be selected by an independent panel, with the overall winner receiving a £3 million grant to host cultural events.

The initiative reflects a broader effort to recognize and support local cultural initiatives, following successful UK City of Culture events in cities like Hull and Coventry.