Consultation launched over Town of Culture bid

Residents and businesses in Warwick are being invited to share what makes the town special, as part of a potential bid to become the UK Town of Culture.

The national initiative is to highlight towns with strong identity, creativity and community spirit, said organisers.

Warwick Town Council said it was not committing to a bid at this stage, but "using the programme's focus on pride and culture to start a conversation".

"As a unique town rich in history, independent businesses, creative activity and strong community life", the town council said it wanted to find out what made it stand out from others across the country.

The government-run competition was launched earlier this year and towns have until the end of March to indicate they are interested.

Warwick Town Council leader Dave Skinner said: "Warwick is full of brilliant people, ideas and activity, and this competition offers a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on all of that.

"What's particularly exciting is the chance to bring people together - residents, businesses and community groups - to help shape the conversation and celebrate what makes Warwick such a special place."

Town centre manager Kelly Scott said: "We've seen first-hand how much passion there is for Warwick through the work we've done with local businesses and residents on the town centre vision.

"This opportunity taps into that energy, giving people a chance to celebrate the town centre, voice their civic pride in their town, get involved and help shape what comes next in a way that feels positive and engaging."

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