Ipswich Central #BackTheBid for City of Culture 2029

The #BackTheBid campaign is a rallying call to people across Ipswich to sign up, get involved and demonstrate the strength of local backing behind the town’s cultural vision and ambition for the future.

Engagement with young people and widespread public support will be a key part of the final submission, demonstrating that the bid is about the whole town coming together to celebrate everything that makes Ipswich unique and special. Signing up will also give people access to updates and engagement opportunities, as well as the chance to share ideas for both the bid itself and a long-term vision for culture in Ipswich. 

DanceEast is leading the development of Ipswich’s ‘Expression of Interest’ for the 2029 City of Culture competition, with a deadline of 8th February 2026. 

Anthony Missen, Chief Executive & Creative Director of DanceEast said: “We want this EOI to reflect culture in its widest sense and embrace all the diverse ways people come together to live, play and connect in Ipswich. But to do that, local people – and especially young people – need to be at the heart of shaping our plans. That’s why we’re asking as many people as possible to sign up and become part of #TeamIpswich2029 and show the world what Ipswich can achieve when we come together.” 

Lee Walker, Chief Executive of Ipswich Central, added: “Becoming the City of Culture would be transformational, for our economy, for our communities and for how the town is perceived across the UK and internationally. The #BackTheBid campaign is about demonstrating unity and pride, and I urge everyone who cares about Ipswich and the future of the town to get involved.” 

Jack Abbott MP, who has been championing the idea of Ipswich going for the bid, said: “This is Ipswich’s regeneration project. It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock investment, jobs and opportunities for the next generation, while also attracting visitors and boosting the local economy. I’m proud to support it and encourage people across Ipswich to back the bid and be part of something truly special.” 

Councillor Neil MacDonald, Leader of Ipswich Borough Council, added: “This City of Culture bid belongs to the people of Ipswich. It’s about confidence in our town, belief in our creativity and ambition for our future. With just one month to go, the #BackTheBid campaign is a chance for everyone – residents, businesses and communities – to come together, show their pride and help us make the strongest possible case for Ipswich.” 

The campaign has already secured strong backing from local businesses and organisations, with a growing number signing up as sponsors in support of the bid. The latest organisation to come on board is Suffolk New College which plays a central role in educating and developing the town’s future workforce. 

Alan Pease, Principal and Chief Executive of Suffolk New College, said: “As an anchor institution in Ipswich, Suffolk New College is proud to support the City of Culture bid. We offer a strong creative curriculum and work with young people every day who will shape the future of this town. Supporting this bid is about enhancing opportunities for our learners and helping to promote Ipswich as the desirable and diverse destination it is. Becoming a City of Culture would open doors for our students and strengthen Ipswich’s reputation as a place where talent can thrive.” 

Ipswich Town FC has already publicly backed the bid, highlighting the link between culture, community and place. 

Ipswich Town Chairman, Mark Ashton, said: “As a club we are proud to be supporting Ipswich’s bid to become the UK City of Culture. The bid is about celebrating everything that’s good about our town and shining a light on the many successes and areas of life which bring us all together, while also using it as a way of showcasing the ambition we all hold for Ipswich. This is an opportunity for everyone to come together and drive further progress for our town and I urge everyone to sign up and play a part.” 

To find out more visit: www.Ipswich2029.com and #BackTheBid for #TeamIpswich2029 for #CityofCulture2029

FAQ’s about the process can be found here: www.danceeast.co.uk/city-of-culture-2029/