The UK was scheduled to host the European Capital of Culture in 2023, building on the success of previous title-holders Glasgow and Liverpool.
However, on 22 November, the European Commission wrote to DCMS stating that, in light of the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, it considers that the selection process should immediately be discontinued.
DCMS’ latest Tourism Update states that the Government disagrees with the European Commission’s stance and is deeply disappointed that it has waited until after the deadline for bids before communicating this position to us. The Government is in urgent discussions with the Commission on the matter and states that it remains committed to working with the five UK cities that submitted bids to help them realise their cultural ambitions.