Newhaven is preparing to submit an expression of interest to become the first UK Town of Culture as part of a new national competition launched by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
The initiative will award £3 million to one town to deliver a major cultural programme in 2028. Three finalists will be selected, with £250,000 awarded to the two runners-up.
For Newhaven, the opportunity aligns closely with the town’s ongoing regeneration. Significant investment is already supporting business growth, job creation and renewed pride in place. A Town of Culture bid reflects the progress that has been taking place behind the scenes.
Newhaven has a strong story to tell – it is a working port with deep maritime heritage, home to a historic fort overlooking the coast and an expanding community of artists, makers and independent businesses.
In recent years, grassroots festivals and cultural events have grown steadily, supported by local partners backing creative enterprises.
Michelle Connors, programme manager at Newhaven Enterprise Zone, said: “This competition asks towns what makes them distinctive and how culture can bring communities together. That is a conversation Newhaven is ready to lead.
“Culture and investment go hand in hand. A successful bid would help us support local talent, strengthen our visitor economy and ensure regeneration delivers lasting benefits for the whole community.”
Cllr James Harrison of Newhaven added: “This bid reflects the ambition we see across the town. From community groups to local businesses, there is real momentum here. Town of Culture would help us channel that energy into opportunities that benefit local people.”
Bids will be judged on three criteria: the town’s unique story, how culture will be accessible for everyone and how the programme will be delivered successfully.
An initial steering group has been established to guide the early stages of the process, bringing together Newhaven Town Council, Newhaven Enterprise Zone, Culture Connect, Look Again, Hospitable Environment, Mamoosh and Rampion.
Local organisations, businesses and residents will be invited to help shape Newhaven’s bid in the coming weeks, with further details to be announced shortly.
Expressions of interest must be submitted by 31 March 2026, with shortlisted towns expected to be announced later in 2026.
