Filton has officially announced its intention to bid for UK Town of Culture 2028, marking the start of an exciting campaign that aims to showcase the town’s rich heritage, world‐leading innovation and vibrant community spirit.
The new national competition, launched by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, invites towns across the UK to celebrate their unique stories and cultural contributions. One winner will be awarded £3 million to deliver a six‐month cultural programme in 2028, while shortlisted towns will receive £60,000 to develop their full bid.
Aerospace Bristol plays a key part in Filton’s cultural identity
Filton’s proposal centres on the theme Life • Lift • Learning – a three‐part celebration of the town’s character and achievements:
Life – the pride, diversity and history of Filton’s community;
Lift – its extraordinary aerospace heritage and engineering excellence;
Learning – the strength of its education and skills offer, from SGS College to UWE Bristol. The Town Council has confirmed that the bid will highlight Filton’s historic contributions to flight and engineering, from Concorde to cutting‐edge aerospace innovation. A planned Ambassador Scheme will recruit local residents to represent Filton’s story, sharing lived experience, local knowledge and community pride.
Adding major momentum to the campaign is the long‐awaited opening of the Brabazon (Aviva) Arena, expected “late 2028”, which, if the town is successful, would become a spectacular finale to Filton’s cultural year. The Council is already in conversation with YTLabout coordinating messaging, exploring event opportunities and ensuring the Arena’s opening programme aligns with the Town of Culture celebrations.
Brabazon welcomed over 35,000 visitors to the neighbourhood to see ‘The Birds’ — a Gromit sculpture designed by Bristol artist Hannah Bone
Local MP Claire Hazelgrove has strongly backed the bid, describing Filton as a “distinct and vibrant community that deserves to be recognised nationally,” and offering support as the Council prepares its Expression of Interest ahead of the 31 March 2026 deadline.
If Filton reaches the longlist this spring, the £60,000 development grant will be used for community consultation, research, and co‐designing events with local organisations, artists and cultural partners. Reaching the shortlist would mean £250k for the town and the ultimate winner could be given £3m, leading to investment in places and organisations around the town.
Winners of the 2024 wildlife gardening competition at Filton Community Garden. Image: Sophie Bancroft
The Town Council says it hopes the bid will not only celebrate Filton’s past and present, but also build long‐term cultural confidence, pride and opportunity for future generations.
A spokesperson said: “The Council is very keen that this will be a community led initiative, designed by residents, organisations, and businesses across the town. The bid will highlight the stories of working people and their dedication and skills.
“We will be seeking to engage with young people, especially those in apprenticeships and further education.
A Working Group is now being formed, and residents will soon be invited to share ideas and get involved in shaping the town’s story. The programme will be fully accessible and will consist of various events from April 2026 until the end of 2028 (if successful).