Wrexham’s Ambitious Bid for UK City of Culture 2029 Gains Momentum
Wrexham’s campaign to become the UK City of Culture 2029 is gaining significant traction, with business leaders across the region showing strong support for the initiative. They believe that securing this title could bring substantial economic, social, and cultural benefits to the area. The enthusiasm was evident at a recent meeting of Wrexham Business Professionals, where Ken Skates MS, the Welsh Government’s Minister for North Wales and Transport, highlighted the potential of the bid.
Mr Skates described the campaign as a major opportunity for the city, emphasizing that it could attract £200 million in investment. He noted that this would not only boost local pride but also provide valuable exposure on a local, national, and global scale. Wrexham narrowly missed out on the title in the previous cycle, losing to Bradford, which later reported an estimated £700 million economic boost from its year as City of Culture.
With the backing of the Welsh Government, Wrexham County Borough Council is now determined to secure the title in 2029. Mr Skates pointed out that the campaign could lead to new employment opportunities, with thousands of jobs created. He also mentioned that improved transport links would benefit both the city and the wider North Wales region.
He urged everyone to support the bid, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming Senedd elections. Mr Skates highlighted the long-term benefits of the Wrexham Gateway project, which aims to transform the city’s transport infrastructure by 2029. By that time, the railway station will be redeveloped, along with new office and leisure blocks, a transport interchange, an events space, and a green corridor into the city centre.
Mr Skates added: “Not long ago we’d be celebrating if Wrexham got a new M&S, and now look at what we’re on the verge of. The football team is repeatedly winning promotion, and with your support, Wrexham can be crowned City of Culture too.”
Amanda Davies, director of Wrexham’s City of Culture bid, outlined the campaign at the meeting. She emphasized that the bid could bring significant financial benefits to the city and support its cultural regeneration. She noted that the City of Culture competition, run every four years by the UK Government’s Department of Culture, Media and Sport, has had a transformative effect on previous winners like Bradford.
Ms Davies stressed that winning the title could unlock £200 million in funding, helping to revitalise under-supported areas of Wrexham. She said: “There are areas of Wrexham that are in dire need of support, and that’s where we can make a difference. This would be transformational.”
The winner of the competition will be announced in May 2026. Caroline Platt, managing director of Platts Agricultural Ltd in Llay, said the title could help attract and retain talent. She commented: “Wrexham has a very strong case, and this is about getting behind the bid and keeping the momentum going. It would be huge for us to win. It would encourage talent to the area and help fill the skills gap while creating more job opportunities.”
Ian Edwards, a member of Wrexham Business Professionals, said improved transport connectivity would benefit businesses across the region. He stated: “Winning the title has to be beneficial for anyone running a business in Wrexham.”
Louise Harper, another member of the group, said the bid reflects the region’s ambition. She added: “Getting behind the City of Culture bid chimes perfectly with Wrexham Business Professionals’ mission to work together to promote regional prosperity and shine a light on the enterprise and expertise that exists in the region.”
