Strabane takes next step on its Town of Culture 2028 journey
17 September 2026
Strabane has taken another important step in its journey to become UK Town of Culture 2028 following a valuable and informative visit to the UK Town of Culture Information Day in Manchester this week.
Strabane has taken another important step in its journey to become UK Town of Culture 2028 following a valuable and informative visit to the UK Town of Culture Information Day in Manchester this week.
Representatives from Derry City and Strabane District Council attended the event alongside delegates from the 15 towns shortlisted for the prestigious title, with Strabane proudly representing Northern Ireland as the only shortlisted town from the region.
The delegation included Deirdre Harte and John Kerr from the Council, who met with Sir Phil Redmond and representatives from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), as well as a range of stakeholders involved in delivering the UK Town of Culture programme.
The information day provided shortlisted towns with an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the competition process, including key timelines for bid development and submission, as well as details surrounding the final decision and winner announcement.
The Strabane delegation also welcomed the opportunity to connect with representatives from other shortlisted towns, sharing experiences and learning more about how communities across the UK are approaching their bids.
Deirdre Harte, programme manager with the Council who is leading on the Strabane bid, described the event as both informative and encouraging, providing valuable insight into what will be required to develop a strong and ambitious submission that showcases Strabane's unique cultural identity, creative talent, rich heritage and community spirit.
She said: “The information gathered during the visit will now help inform the next phase of bid development as Council and local partners continue to shape Strabane's vision for 2028.”
John Kerr, Arts and Culture Manager with the Council said: “Our visit to Manchester reinforced just how exciting this opportunity is for Strabane. We learned a great deal about the process ahead and were encouraged by the support available from DCMS and other stakeholders as we prepare our submission.”
Encouraging the wider community to get behind the bid and to actively get involved in helping shape it, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Grace Uí Niallais said: “Becoming Town of Culture 2028 would present a transformational opportunity for Strabane. It would shine a spotlight on the town's creativity, heritage and community spirit, while delivering lasting benefits for residents, businesses, visitors and future generations.
She said it was important to emphasise that the bid belongs to the people of Strabane and Council wants everyone to play their part.
“Whether you have a creative idea, want to get involved, or simply want to support the bid, now is the time to make your voice heard. Together, we can showcase everything that makes Strabane such a special place and give our town the very best chance of securing this title and the budget that comes with it.”
Residents, community groups, artists, schools and young people, businesses and organisations are encouraged to become involved in shaping the bid and helping to tell Strabane's story as preparations continue over the coming months.
Anyone wishing to find out more or share ideas can contact the Town of Culture team at [email protected] or attend the Information Afternoon taking place in Strabane Library on Friday 18 September from 2pm to 5pm.
You can also add your support on our social media platforms and share with family and friends.
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