As the cultural capital of the region, and with a vibrant cultural and creative sector in the City, we’re bidding to become European Capital of Culture because we believe it will bring huge benefits to the City and the region.

We believe that being Capital of Culture would enhance our cultural facilities and ensure that everyone has good access to them; it would bring people together around a shared vision for the City; it will attract more visitors, and encourage young people to come to live and work in Norwich; above all it would celebrate our cultural distinctiveness and show how proud we are of our wonderful City.

Just by competing, we’re showing the world that we are serious about building the cultural life of Norwich. If we do win, it will have huge benefits — but even if we don’t, the mere process of bidding has brought together a strong partnership which will work towards our goal of developing Norwich as an international cultural centre.

The bid is being put together by a partnership of organisations involved in the cultural life of Norwich — the creative and media industry, civic leaders, arts organisations, business — which is committed to making sure that the bid reflects the needs and wishes of everyone. To see who is involved in the partnership, click here.

The bid is currently being put together, and will be submitted in April 2002. The initial bids (around 14 cities are believed to be bidding) will be considered by an advisory panel brought together by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). A shortlist will be announced by the end of 2002. All cities on the shortlist will be win a ‘Centre of Culture’ award of excellence (this is a UK accolade, not a European designation). DCMS will then select one city in spring 2003, which will go forward for ratification by the European Union by the end of 2003. This city will then become European Capital of Culture in 2008.

We need to demonstrate that the widest possible number of people are involved in Norwich’s cultural life. That’s why we want your ideas, input and support. You can contribute by clicking here.