Jarrow, in South Tyneside, will enter the competition for UK Town of Culture 2028. Work is now underway to prepare the Expression of Interest (EOI), required for submission by the end of March.
Jarrow Forward, the town’s Neighbourhood Board, and South Tyneside Council are working with partners across the town and beyond to build the case reflecting Jarrow’s heritage, community strength and cultural ambition.
Cllr Tracey Dixon, Leader of South Tyneside Council said:
“The people of Jarrow and its neighbouring towns have innovated and inspired world-wide advances in learning, science, industry, language, art, music, sport, the environment and social reform for more than 300 years.
“Culture connects us. It drives pride and inspires ambition. It is a proven economic driver and can be a transformational force for communities. It creates jobs, builds skills and confidence, attracts investment and brings people together.
“This is an exciting opportunity to share and celebrate the national story emanating from Jarrow with the whole of South Tyneside, the wider North East region and the rest of the UK and beyond.”
Susan Wear, Chair of Jarrow Forward, said:
“The 10-year Jarrow Plan starting this year has culture and creativity running through it. Through £20m government funding it aims to give every young person in Jarrow a helping hand to a better future, building their confidence and ambition through creativity, skills and pride. The title of UK Town of Culture 2028 would supercharge these plans for a whole generation, and have a resounding impact for young people across the whole of the North East.”
Jarrow’s cultural identity runs deep. From its Anglo‑Saxon heritage and the legacy of Bede to its role in shaping social history, its celebrated sporting achievements and the creativity found across its communities, the town’s cultural influence has spread worldwide for centuries.
Kate Osborne, MP for Jarrow and Gateshead East, said:
“From the Venerable Bede to the 200 marchers of the Jarrow March, whose 90th anniversary we mark this year, Jarrow’s history is one of determination, creativity and pride.
“With £20 million of investment through Jarrow Forward and communities coming together to celebrate this heritage, the town has so much to offer and deserves to be recognised as UK Town of Culture.
“I’m proud to be the Member of Parliament that represents Jarrow, and it’s time we shift the narrative: to be remembered as a town that is now rich in vibrant culture.”
If the EOI is shortlisted, Jarrow Forward and its partners will work with young people, community groups, businesses, residents and independent creatives and artists to develop detailed proposals for an exciting programme for 2028. This next phase will ensure local voices shape how Jarrow’s story is celebrated and how future opportunities are realised.
