We’ve done it together! Council leader welcomes culture bid news

Published: Thursday, November 30, 2023

After six months of listening to hundreds of community organisations, creative venues, businesses and residents of all ages, Wandsworth has now formally entered its bid for London Borough of Culture 2025.

Share this

Celebration: Wandsworth has submitted bid for London Borough of Culture

As the first London borough to publicly announce its culture campaign in June, we have been able to consult thousands of local people and gather a wide range of views to help shape our bid.
 
Simon Hogg, Leader of Wandsworth Council, said: “We’re excited to announce that our bid to be London Borough of Culture 2025 has been submitted to the Mayor of London.

“This has been a long listening process to understand how we can build new relationships and partnerships across the borough, improving access to all the amazing things Wandsworth has to offer. We’ve heard how much people love Wandsworth but also about the challenges they are facing. 

“I’d like to thank everyone who has shared their views and given their enthusiastic support to our bid. I really believe that whatever the outcome, we have already become a stronger and better-connected community during this participation process.”

Council Leader Simon Hogg with London Borough of Culture banner
Consultation: Leader Simon Hogg updates local organisations

With an ambitious plan to improve access to culture for everyone across the borough, this is the first time Wandsworth has entered the London-wide competition.

Wandsworth’s bid aims to use the power of culture to drive positive change for local residents and organisations, connecting people and improving wellbeing.

Councillor Kemi Akinola with Frank Bruno
Campaign backing: Heavyweight support from Wandsworth-born Frank Bruno

The Mayor of London will announce the winning borough in March 2024 ahead of the year of culture beginning in April 2025.

There’s still time to share your local hidden gems and cultural heroes in our online survey 

Find out more about the Mayor’s London Borough of Culture project

Local hero: Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho supports the campaign