Hemel Hempstead has launched a bid to be the UK's Town of Culture.
Dacorum Borough Council has has announced that it is throwing its hat in the ring by preparing a pitch to the government as part of its new Arts and Culture Strategy.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy kicked off the UK's search for its first town of culture late last year, declaring that too many towns have been “written out of the national story”.
It is similar to the Cities of Culture programme, a title most recently bestowed on Bradford.
The first Town of Culture will be selected for 2028, with the council developing an Expression of Interest for Hemel to be considered in the large town category.
Three finalists - small, medium and large - will then be selected. The winning town will receive £3 million to deliver its proposed programme, while the two remaining finalists will each be awarded £250,000.
Beyond the funding, the benefits of winning supposedly include increased tourism, civic pride, and greater cultural participation.
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Explaining the bid, council leader Sally Symington said: "The Town of Culture competition offers an amazing opportunity for us to bring to life the ambitions of our new Arts and Culture Strategy and build upon our existing plans.
“Residents have told us they would love to see more creative and heritage activity in Hemel Hempstead, and more options for young people to engage within these areas. Artists and organisations want more opportunities to connect and build a creative community and engage in events such as our recent River of Light Parade.
“With Hemel Garden Communities and future growth, we want to build on Hemel’s story as a New Town - celebrating its 80th anniversary next year- and increase opportunities for everyone in our community to enjoy culture in their own town.”
A pitch is also being developed for Tring, while a joint bid has already been submitted for Welwyn Garden City and Hatfield.
The village of Letchmore Heath has previously been put forward as a contender by Guardian writer Peter Bradshaw, although a formal application seems unlikely.
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