Causeway Coast and Glens Council to prepare submission for Limavady as UK Town of Culture 2028
Causeway Coast and Glens Council has taken steps towards submitting Limavady for the upcoming UK Town of Culture competition.
During February’s council meeting, DUP Alderman Aaron Callan proposed council officers develop a “comprehensive submission” to the competition on behalf of Limavady, with the objective of positioning the town as a “strong candidate for this prestigious national award” in 2028.
Alderman Callan said the award would be a “game changer” for the town, following Derry’s success as City of Culture in 2013, adding “it created overnight stays, generated additional spend, and it also boosted the city’s image as a place to visit, invest, and raise pride and confidence among the local community”.
Alderman Callan argued Limavady also has a “distinctive cultural story and voice” as the birthplace of Londonderry Air/Danny Boy, as well as a deep heritage and an established arts and cultural centre in the town centre.
“We’re seeing the Steinbeck Festival kicking off just this week and the Stendhal Festival, which draws in thousands,” he added.
“We also have a huge range of local groups who are very active in the area; churches, bands, schools, community groups, and sporting organisations.
“There’s not much cost involved in the expression of interest, at this point in time it’s officers gathering information [and] engaging with some of the organisations, but if we are a winner there’s a potential return of £3.5 million.”
Sinn Féin councillor Brenda Chivers said the Town of Culture award would bring “much-needed economic benefits” through increased tourism and footfall, while DUP councillor Tanya Elder seconded the motion saying it was an “ambitious step for Limavady”.
Members voted unanimously in favour of the motion.