Wolverhampton Council will submit an expression of interest ahead of the March 31 deadline, with the strongest candidates to be shortlisted and each receive a £60,000 grant to work up their full bids.

Three finalists will be chosen by an expert panel, with the winning town awarded £3million to deliver a year-long programme of cultural celebrations, while two runners-up will receive £250,000 each.

The contest will run alongside the existing UK City of Culture contest, which was won by Bradford in 2025.

The government has launched the competition to ‘foster a sense of local pride’ and ‘spotlight the cultural contribution of towns to our national story’.

Councillor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, said: “Bilston’s identity has always been shaped by creativity, the arts, heritage and community spirit and plays a significant role in Bilstonians’ wellbeing.

“Being named Town of Culture would amplify this and create a lasting legacy for the town.”

Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, added: “Bilston has a rich culture built on generations of manufacturing, mining and metalwork, its famed enamelware and orange chips.

“The town’s heritage gives its people an enduring strength that sees them celebrate their past, while their resourcefulness, warmth and determination enable them to embrace the future – making Bilston an excellent candidate to maximise the benefits of being the first UK Town of Culture.”

Bilston already has a strong cultural offer thanks to venues and organisations such as Bilston Craft Gallery, Bilston Town Hall, The Robin and Gazebo Theatre. The new multi-million-pound outdoor market – due to be completed in June - will also provide a dedicated space for events, bringing the community and visitors together.

Culture is embedded in its street scape, celebrating the town’s industrial heritage and telling the story of Bilston life – and investment has seen the recent launch of a brand-new Bilston Heritage Trail.

Arts, culture and events are also a priority in the Bilston Pride in Place Programme, which will ensure the town’s identity is celebrated through arts and cultural events, honouring its past while shaping a future that reflects the diversity and strength of its community. This has already led to the reinstatement of Bilston carnival as a powerful symbol of community pride, connection and celebration.

Each town will be judged against a set of aims and criteria, such as a strong, compelling local story and high-quality arts, heritage and creative industries.