West Yorkshire leaders back Bradford 2025
March 15, 2024
© Karol Wyszynski
As we get closer to 2025, we’re excited to announce funding from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) in support of our ambitious plans for Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture.
Regional leaders approved more than £6m won 14 March to help drive economic growth through West Yorkshire’s creative industries.
“ West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s investment is another huge vote of confidence in our ambitious plans for Bradford 2025. This is Bradford’s time, and we are preparing for the biggest and best ever celebration of Bradford’s culture in all its forms. We want Bradford to be a district where creative people choose to live and thrive – our district-wide programme will be bold, distinctive and unmistakeably ‘Bradford’, and we can’t wait to show the world what we’re capable of.”
The majority of the investment (£5.7m) will contribute to the delivery of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture – a landmark year of cultural events, festivals and celebrations showcasing the vibrant communities of Bradford, and West Yorkshire’s dynamic creative industries, to the world.
“ West Yorkshire is the place to be for culture and creativity – more so now than ever, with the epic Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture just months away. Investing in culture is a key part of building a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire that works for all.”
Previous cities with the prestigious UK City of Culture title, including Coventry and Hull, have benefited from a surge of local and global visitors as well as significant economic growth. Next year’s cultural celebrations are expected to have a similarly major impact for Bradford and the wider region.
“ This additional £6m of funding approved by West Yorkshire Combined Authority is very welcome and shows the level of confidence our partners have in what will be an amazing year for Bradford, West Yorkshire and the UK.”