Maldon District Council celebrates submitting bid for UK Town of Culture 2028
Published on Friday, 3rd July 2026
An Expression of Interest for the UK Town of Culture 2028 competition, has been submitted to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
Maldon District Council has submitted an Expression of Interest for the UK Town of Culture 2028 competition, setting out an ambitious vision to celebrate Maldon’s distinctive heritage, creativity, landscapes and communities on a national stage.
In celebration of Maldon town’s culture and heritage, we have submitted a digital postcard to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). You can now view our entry alongside others from across the country on the official UK Town of Culture Digital Map Here.
Maldon’s submission draws together the area’s rich cultural story, from its maritime heritage, historic waterfront, saltmarsh coast and internationally significant landscapes to its thriving events, creative practitioners, community groups, museums, heritage assets and town and parish identities.
The bid aligns with the Council’s developing Culture and Heritage Strategy, which is being shaped through engagement with residents, creative organisations, tourism partners, environmental groups, event organisers, town and parish councils and other stakeholders across the district.
If shortlisted, Maldon would receive £60,000 to develop a full bid, with the successful UK Town of Culture 2028 receiving £3 million to deliver a six-month cultural programme. Two runners-up are also expected to receive £250,000 each to support delivery of elements of their bids.
Councillor Simon Morgan, Leader of Maldon District Council, said: “Maldon has a remarkable story to tell. Our district is shaped by its history, its coastline, its communities and the creativity of the people who live and work here.
“Submitting our Town of Culture bid is an important opportunity to celebrate what makes Maldon special, while looking ahead to how culture and heritage can support pride in place, wellbeing, tourism and our local economy.
“Whether or not we progress to the next stage, this work will help us bring partners together, strengthen our cultural ambitions and make sure Maldon’s unique voice is heard nationally.”
Shortlisted towns are expected to be announced in July 2026, with finalists and the overall winner due to be announced in early 2027. The UK Town of Culture 2028 programme will be delivered in 2028.
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