URL: https://democracy.thanet.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=5557

Decision Maker: Chief Executive (CEx)

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: Margate is to be put forward for consideration to the UK Town of Culture competition. The proposal follows the recent disappointing news that the Isle of Thanet was not shortlisted for UK City of Culture 2028. Margate is proposed on the basis of having the necessary assets, infrastructure and organisations needed to deliver a strong cultural event programme in 2028 should it win the competition. There is also substantial evidence regarding the cultural priorities of Margate and Thanet’s residents to help strengthen the submission. Option - submit more than one bid for Thanet’s towns. Although the whole of the district has significant heritage and culture, Margate stands out as having a greater amount of structural infrastructure, and a greater proportion of cultural capacity in the district and a stronger evidence base. The council is only able to submit one application, Margate was chosen as the strongest contender, however if Margate wins, then the benefit of being Town of Culture will be felt across the district.    Option - do not make a submission to the UK Town of Culture competition. This was rejected on the basis of the potential profile and opportunities the status of Town of Culture could bring, not just for Margate, but the wider district. This is also due to the incredible support we witnessed as part of the recent Isle of Culture bid.

Date of Decision: April 1, 2026