Welsh Conservatives welcome Wrexham's UK City of Culture 2029 shortlist success

The Welsh Conservatives have welcomed the announcement that Wrexham has been shortlisted to become UK City of Culture 2029.

Wrexham is one of four finalists, alongside Blackpool, Milton Keynes and Sheffield. The winning city will receive £10 million in UK Government funding, with the winner announced in early 2027.

Sam Rowlands MS, Welsh Conservative Member for Flint Wrexham, said:

“This is fantastic news for Wrexham and everyone who has worked so hard to support the bid.

Wrexham has so much to offer, from its rich history and cultural heritage to its thriving arts scene and growing international reputation. The remarkable success of Wrexham AFC has already put the city firmly on the world stage, and winning UK City of Culture would build on that incredible momentum.

I fully support Wrexham’s bid and will be doing everything I can to champion it in the Senedd. It would be wonderful to see Wrexham become the first Welsh city to win this prestigious title.”

Paul Davies MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Culture, said:

“Wrexham would make an excellent UK City of Culture and I congratulate everyone involved in getting the city this far.

This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the very best of Welsh culture, attract visitors and investment, and celebrate everything that makes Wrexham special.

Sam and I will be giving the bid our full support in the Senedd, and I hope Members from all parties will get behind Wrexham and help bring this title to Wales.”