Harrogate Town Council has issued a positive response to falling at the first hurdle in the UK Town of Culture competition by saying the work done had created a “brand new era of collaboration in the town”.

Having spearheaded a bid which ended up among the 300-plus rival entries which also failed to make the shortlist in the £3 million competition, Harrogate Town Council said this was not the end.

In fact, it added, the head of steam built up by entering UK Town of Culture would now help shape planning for Stray 250, the town’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Stray, which will take place in 2028.

Coun Paula Stott, Chair of Harrogate Town Council's newly formed Culture, Events & Heritage Committee, said: “This is far from the end of the road.

Although "disappointed" by the UK Town of Culture competition setback, the Mayor of Harrogate, Coun Viv Poskitt, said all the effort had been worthwhile. (Picture contributed)

placeholder image — Although "disappointed" by the UK Town of Culture competition setback, the Mayor of Harrogate, Coun Viv Poskitt, said all the effort had been worthwhile. (Picture contributed)

"The work done to build this bid has catalysed a new era of cultural collaboration in our town and has helped to bring together Harrogate’s cultural and creative sector around a shared purpose.

"We have forged strong partnerships and developed a clear, ambitious vision for our local heritage which will not disappear with this decision.

"That momentum will now help shape planning for the town’s celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the Stray in 2028."

Although disappointed by the result, the Mayor of Harrogate, Coun Viv Poskitt, said the effort had been worthwhile.

“Naturally, we are disappointed not to have made the final shortlist for the Town of Culture title,” she said. "But I would like to give my thanks to everyone from our cultural organisations, business partners and community groups who poured their passion into this application.

"Special thanks must go to Harrogate International Festivals, who, during their busy 60th anniversary year, contributed vision, ideas and practical support to help complete the application on time.”

Harrogate Town Council says it intends to play a key role in channelling the town’s collective energy into the historic Stray 250 anniversary celebrations.

The parish-level local authority was launched in 2025 and works on behalf of residents to support community initiatives, local services and civic life.

information: https://harrogatetowncouncil.gov.uk/