Dartford campaigning to become UK Town of Culture 2028

Another Kent town is set to submit a bid for the UK Town of Culture.

Dartford is the fourth place in the county campaigning for the coveted title, joining existing efforts from Folkestone and Deal, as well as Chatham.

The competition, which is for 2028, aims to celebrate the legacy and creativity of some of the country’s smaller places – and carries a £3 million investment prize.

Dartford Town Centre Partnership is leading the latest bid, working in collaboration with Dartford Borough Council (DBC) and other local partners.

An expression of interest will be submitted to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) by March 31.

It is hoped the town will then be shortlisted and invited to submit a full application.

Dartford council leader Jeremy Kite said: “I’m passionate about culture and creativity in our town, and I think we’re very fortunate to have a town bursting at the seams with it.

“Culture in Dartford is not merely confined to one venue or organisation. It lives in businesses, community halls, schools, rehearsal rooms, high streets and public spaces.

“It lives in its people. If you love Dartford, we’d love to hear your story to help shape our bid.”

All residents are being invited to share their stories of the town to help shape the bid, including community events that have brought people together and places in Dartford that matter to them.

Young people, community organisations, town centre businesses, cultural, creative, faith and heritage groups can provide a short written story, 30-second video or photo that captures “their” Dartford. To find out more, click here.

DBC says Dartford’s cultural influence “runs deep” and continues to deliver “meaningful cultural experiences”, from celebrating its world-famous music heritage through statues of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, to the Sir Peter Blake Gallery, a year-round programme of free community events.

Last week, Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust launched its bid to win the title.

An event took place on February 24 to mark the launch of the town's campaign, with the deputy chief executive at Chatham Dockyard, Paul Barnard, saying they are “really proud” to be launching the bid.

Three finalists will be selected, with the overall winner receiving the £3 million.

The two runners-up will each receive £250,000 to deliver elements of their bids.