Unlocking potential as Armagh 2025 continues its race for UK City of Culture
The Northern Ireland bid for UK City of Culture 2025 belongs to the richly historic, but quietly understated, city of Armagh and its wider borough of Banbridge and Craigavon, a place that makes for an eclectic mix of cultural heritage, possibly why it is one of the front-runners to win the prestigious title.
The competition entry has provided a renewed sense of awakening in the uniqueness of the borough, as JB Vallely, internationally renowned artist, aptly described: “It’s almost like a spark igniting.” The bid has provided a focused opportunity to talk about the city and borough, the buildings, the history and the vibrancy of its culture, leading to a continuous flow of ideas emerging with invigorating freshness.
Armagh City is steeped in architectural gems and the birthplace of some of history’s enviable firsts, from Emain Macha, to St Patrick, to Navan Fort and the Armagh Observatory, symbol of the Age of Enlightenment and the oldest active institution of its type in these Isles. Contrast this with the old railway town of Banbridge famous for linen, Captain Crozier and more recently Game of Thrones, and the new town of Craigavon, with its industrial roots, lakes and traditions, there is much potential to explore.
Winners of the competition in 2013 Derry/Londonderry, Hull in 2017, and more recently Coventry in 2021 are prime examples of the impact this culture-led initiative can have. Each city was propelled into the spotlight in an extraordinary way, but fundamentally managed to address their own set of socio-economic challenges through this unique opportunity by creating a platform for positive change, collaborative thinking, strategic investment, and perhaps most important a lasting legacy that has achieved real impact for the people of their cities.
Winning the title would be a game-changer for Armagh City and borough providing a significant step change for economic regeneration and an opportunity to bring communities together like never before. The title would stimulate investment within the tourism, arts and culture sector across Northern Ireland, and catapult infrastructure funding, digital technology investment and transport access firmly onto the Northern Ireland agenda for the region. This bid is not a one-year programme of events, it is about creating a foundation for change and long-term sustainable regeneration by retaining talent and creating better opportunities for future generations.
The final shortlisting process is now underway, with the announcement due in early March. If you would like to find out more or get involved visit: www.Armagh2025.com
Contact details:
cityofculture@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk
