INVERNESS has been longlisted for the UK's 2029 City of Culture award, becoming the only Scottish city in the final nine.
The Highland capital could secure a £10 million prize fund if it wins the award, which would also help to attract tourists and investment to the region according to the Government.
The city entered a joint Inverness-Highland bid, covering the whole region. It will face competition from Blackpool, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Portsmouth, Sheffield, Swindon and Wrexham.
All nine longlisted places will receive £60,000 each to help them to develop their full bids for the competition - up from £40k since the last competition. The three cities behind the winner will also receive a £125k prize.
Councillor Bill Lobban, convener of The Highland Council, said that it was an “extraordinary moment” for Inverness.
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He said: “I am delighted that Inverness and the Highlands have been longlisted for UK City of Culture. This is an extraordinary moment which recognises the creativity, resilience and cultural richness of communities spread across one of the most unique and diverse regions in the UK.
“This bid celebrates our landscapes, our languages, our young people and our shared ambition for a confident, connected and sustainable future. We are delighted to take this next step and to showcase the Highlands as a place where culture drives opportunity, innovation and pride.”
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Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “For far too long, opportunity has not been shared equally across the country. The UK City of Culture and new UK Town of Culture competitions recognise the enormous contributions made by communities all over the UK who are all part of the story of who we are as a nation.
“I look forward to seeing what the nine longlisted places have in store as they progress in the competition. I also urge any towns thinking about entering the UK Town of Culture competition to seize this opportunity and get involved. It’s a chance to show the country what makes them unique and shine a spotlight on their cultural offer, enriching the lives of local people.”
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