Birmingham bids to be City of Culture
December 10, 2009 10:23 PM
"This is a fantastic opportunity to not only promote Birmingham but also make a real difference to people across this great city," says Lib Dem Cllr Martin Mullaney.
Birmingham's bid to be the UK's first City of Culture was launched yesterday (December 10 2009), which could be worth up to £200 million for the city's economy. Backed by leading cultural organisations across the city, a website (www.canvasbirmingham.com) has been launched to ask residents for their views and ideas.
Councillor Martin Mullaney, Birmingham's Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport & Culture, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to not only promote Birmingham but also make a real difference to people across this great city.
"So why do we want to be UK City of Culture? Well externally the title will raise our profile, promoting Birmingham to a national and international audience. Internally we would hope to increase participation in cultural activities, using culture as a catalyst for lasting social regeneration.
"The potential economic benefits are massive. Liverpool's year as European Capital of Culture was worth a massive £800 million to the city region and estimates suggest UK City of Culture status could be worth up to £200 million."
Shortlisted cities will have until 28 May 2010 to submit a final bid and the Department for Culture, Media & Sport will award City of Culture status to the city that can best demonstrate:
- A high quality cultural programme reaching a wide variety of audiences and a fitting legacy from Liverpool's Capital of Culture and the Cultural Olympiad in 2012
- A programme using culture to lead lasting social regeneration (including widening participation and supporting diversity)
- Significant economic impact
- Credibility, support from partners and a track record of delivery
- Clear approach to legacy and evaluation of impact
- How holding the title will be a catalyst for a step change in the local area
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