Stockport Council is 'exploring' the possibility of submitting a UK Town of Culture bid.

The UK Town of Culture is a new accolade from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, aiming to highlight the 'cultural contribution of towns' to the nation.

Towns of all sizes across the country are invited to apply - the winner will not just receive the prestigious title of UK Town of Culture, but will also be given £3m to deliver a programme of cultural events throughout 2028.

A spokesperson from Stockport Council said a bid would open up a world of opportunity for residents, creatives and communities across the borough.

It's also expected that a successful bid would deliver a wealth of investment opportunities alongside the £3m prize, including new resources and partnerships.

As part of the bid, Stockport Council is inviting all residents to give feedback on what they think is special about Stockport.

"We are keen to hear what people value about Stockport, what makes the borough distinctive, how culture is experienced in everyday life, what feels missing, and the activities, places and experiences that matter most to them", a council spokesperson said.

Locals can share their thoughts in a public survey, which asks open questions such as 'what is special about Stockport?', and 'How would you describe the story of our town?'.

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The feedback gathered would help 'give shape' to Stockport's Town of Culture bid.

The bid would also make a case for Stockport's existing precedent as a cultural hotspot, with a Greater Manchester Town of Culture accolade already under its belt from 2023, and a host of new openings such as Stockroom.

Cllr Mark Roberts, leader of Stockport Council, said; "Stockport's transformation shows the power of culture to shape places and bring communities together.

"From our year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture to the opening of Stockroom, we've seen first-hand how creativity can energise our town and build pride across the borough.

"Bidding for UK Town of Culture is about taking that momentum even further, putting Stockport firmly on the national stage and setting out an ambitious vision for the future."

Darren Stannage, company manager at NK Theatre Arts, said: "Culture in Stockport isn't a luxury — it's a lifeline. In a borough where many grow up in very different circumstances, access to the arts builds resilience, aspiration and pride in young people, creating spaces where background doesn't define potential and confidence can flourish.

"Cultural organisations across the borough are already working hard to widen access and break down barriers.

"A UK Town of Culture award would help us reach more young people and ensure creativity continues to unite and inspire communities."

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Jacqui Wood, chief executive at Arc, added: "For many of the people we support, taking part in creative activity is transformational – helping them to feel less isolated, build relationships and take positive steps with their mental health.

"Culture has a real role to play in developing a sense of belonging and supporting wellbeing across our communities. Placing it at the heart of Stockport's future plans recognises the difference creative activity can make to people's lives."

You can give your feedback in the Stockport cultural survey here.

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