Nine Finalists Announced for UK City of Culture 2029, Including Blackpool, Ipswich, and Milton Keynes

Nine cities have been selected for a longlist to receive funding aimed at supporting the development of comprehensive bid plans. Each city will receive a financial boost of £60,000 to aid in the preparation of their proposals.

This initiative is part of a broader government effort to promote regional growth and enhance local economies through targeted investments. The selected cities will have the opportunity to refine and expand their plans, potentially positioning themselves for future funding opportunities or projects that align with national development goals. Further details on the selection criteria and next steps for the cities involved are expected to be released shortly.