Wokingham Borough Council is set to submit Woodley as its entry to the Government’s inaugural UK Town of Culture competition.
The national scheme, run by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, aims to showcase how culture can bring communities together, boost opportunity, and support local regeneration.
The winning town will receive £3 million to deliver a six-month programme of cultural events in 2028. Two runners-up will each receive £250,000, while shortlisted towns will receive £60,000 to develop detailed proposals.
Woodley’s expression of interest will highlight the town’s unique qualities, from its rich aviation history as the former home of Woodley Aerodrome to its post-war reinvention and diverse community spirit today.
Local community groups, schools, businesses, and creatives are being encouraged to get involved to help shape the bid, which must be submitted by 31 March.
Cllr Mark Ashwell, executive member for economic development, sport, leisure, and arts, said: “Woodley has a rich and fascinating history, but it’s also a forward-looking town with a growing cultural identity and a real appetite for bringing people together. This competition could help us go further — creating more opportunities for residents and visitors, supporting local groups and businesses, and shining a spotlight on everything that makes the town special.”
If Woodley is shortlisted, the council plans to work with local groups, schools, creatives, and volunteers to develop a full cultural programme ahead of the final application stage in autumn 2026.
The bid also aligns with the borough’s Communities Vision, which focuses on strengthening community connections, opportunity, and pride in place across Wokingham Borough.
