Ipswich longlisted for UK City of Culture 2029

Ipswich has been named as one of nine places across the UK to be longlisted for UK City of Culture 2029, following an announcement by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

The longlisting places Ipswich alongside Blackpool, Inverness‑Highland, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Portsmouth, Sheffield, Swindon and Wrexham in the next stage of the national competition. Each longlisted place will receive £60,000 in development funding to support the preparation of a full bid, with the winning city set to receive £10 million to deliver a year‑long cultural programme in 2029.

The UK City of Culture programme has a strong track record of supporting economic regeneration, investment and job creation, with previous host cities attracting millions of pounds of additional investment and significantly increasing visitor numbers.

Ipswich’s longlisting reflects a town‑wide collaborative effort, bringing together cultural organisations, education providers, community groups, residents and businesses. Culture plays an important role in Ipswich’s long‑term vision, supporting place‑making, talent attraction and wider economic growth.

Suffolk Chamber of Commerce has been a long‑standing supporter of the Ipswich 2029 bid, recognising the role culture can play in creating opportunity, strengthening communities and enhancing the town’s appeal as a place to live, work and do business.

Commenting on the announcement, John Dugmore, Chief Executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, said:

“Ipswich being longlisted for UK City of Culture 2029 is an important moment for the town and a strong endorsement of its ambition and potential. This bid has been shaped by partnership across Ipswich, and it presents a real opportunity to deliver long‑term benefits for people, communities and the local economy.”

While longlisting marks a significant milestone, the competition remains highly competitive. Work will now focus on developing a strong and compelling full bid ahead of the shortlist stage, with further opportunities expected for businesses and organisations to engage as the process continues.

Suffolk Chamber of Commerce will continue to support the Ipswich 2029 bid and encourage the business community to play an active role as Ipswich progresses to the next stage of the UK City of Culture competition.