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Weymouth, Portland and Chickerell Unite for National Towns of Culture 2028 Bid

Monday, 2 March 2026 08:31

By Jamie Lyones

Weymouth and Portland are setting their sights on a new cultural milestone after jointly holding the Dorset Towns of Culture 2025 title, which delivered more than 200 events across the two communities. Now, the towns are looking ahead to a bid for the National Towns of Culture 2028 title, with plans to also involve Chickerell. The proposed joint bid would highlight the cultural diversity and collaborative spirit of the wider area.

Speaking about the plans, the Mayor of Weymouth, Cllr Caroline Nickinson, said: “It’s a tremendous boost for the town. We had a wonderful year last year and we are very much hoping that we can win the UK bid and we can move even further.”

 

She also praised the “wonderful events” staged across Weymouth and Portland during their 2025 cultural year.

 

At February’s Full Council meeting, councillors voted unanimously in favour of Weymouth Town Council entering into a Culture, Heritage and Arts partnership with Portland Town Council and Chickerell Town Council. They also agreed that Weymouth should be part of a joint bid with the two councils for National Towns of Culture 2028. If Chickerell Town Council decides not to participate, the bid would proceed with Portland Town Council.

 

Weymouth Town Council said that taking part in the bidding process alone can bring benefits to the community. A council report stated: “Competing for the title, irrespective of whether or not a place wins, can have a hugely positive impact on the local community. It fosters a sense of local pride and strengthens collaboration among local partners.”

 

During the Dorset Town of Culture year, residents and visitors took part in street theatre, live music, art exhibitions and immersive cultural experiences celebrating the area’s history, coastline and creative energy. The programme also supported local businesses and encouraged volunteers to get involved in arts and environmental projects.

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