THE UNIVERSITY of Reading has lent its backing to a bid for the role of City of Culture in 2029.
Reading Borough Council, alongside the town’s cultural sector and partner organisations, intends to submit a joint expression of interest in the role.
The proposition has been lodged ahead of a final decision which would be made later this year on whether to develop a full bid.
The university has joined the coalition of organisations leading the bid, which also includes Reading Economy and Destination Agency (REDA), and a wide array of cultural, business and community organisations.
UK City of Culture is a national title awarded by the Government every four years, recognising places where culture benefits people and communities.
The bid sets out a vision to make culture ‘an everyday right’ for everyone across the town of Reading and the wider region.
Leaders of the bid cite a number of cultural icons and institutions here in the town, including the Abbey Quarter, and the town’s more modern role in digital innovation.
The university itself has spawned some of Reading’s most recognisable cultural impacts, including the Climate Stripes–an international symbol of the growing climate crisis–created by Professor Ed Hawkins, as well as the growth of Screen Berkshire, and its role within the Reading Museums Partnership.
Reading is home to nine museums, a nationally recognised theatre, major music events, including one of the largest festivals in the UK, and a wide range of community-led festivals.
The Department of Culture, Media and Sport will review submissions and confirm a longlist later in the year.
Professor Robert Van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, said: “The University is proud to stand alongside partners in supporting Reading’s City of Culture bid.
“This is an opportunity to shine a national spotlight on the creativity, diversity and ingenuity that define our town.”As an institution rooted in this community, we see the power culture has to transform lives, strengthen wellbeing and open new pathways into education and the creative industries.
“We are excited to help shape a programme worthy of Reading’s ambition.”
