Town of Culture

We're delighted to confirm that the Council is happy to support one consortium in the district to submit an expression of interest to the Department for Culture Media and Sport, Town of Culture competition 2028.

We invite expression of interest from local businesses, cultural organisation, community and voluntary group, civic leaders, and industry partners and other stakeholders who are working collaboratively for arts, culture and heritage.

Submissions must be led by a constituted group or town council and should take the form of a one-page summary outlining your vision for consideration by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.

Your summary should cover the following three areas:

1. Your Story - What makes the town unique?
2. Culture for Everyone - How will the programme be inclusive?
3. Making it Happen - How will the community consortium deliver the year long programme?

Closing date for submission to SMDC is 12pm Friday 20^th February, 2026.  Deadline for submission to the DCMS is 31^st March 2026.

Please email culture@staffsmoorlands.gov.uk with your expression of interest.

Following the closing date, we will review and score the submissions and select the successful proposal to submit to the DCMS.