Sittingbourne Part Of 'UK Town Of Culture 2028' Bid

Pictured: Kevin McKenna MP and The Mayor of Swale Cllr Karen Watson.

After weeks of conversations with residents, community groups, young people, artists and local organisations, Kevin McKenna MP announced today (Tuesday 31st March) the launch of grassroots bid to make Sheerness and Sittingbourne the UK Town of Culture 2028.

The bid has been shaped through discussions in schools, community hubs and local high streets, ensuring it genuinely reflects the voices, ambitions and creativity of the people who call these towns home.

Celebrating Heritage and Community Sheerness and Sittingbourne have long played a key role in Britain’s national story. Sittingbourne’s brick and paper industries helped build modern Britain, contributing materials for landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and King’s Cross Railway Station. Across the Swale, Sheerness boasts a proud history of naval engineering and innovation, contributing to pivotal moments in the country’s maritime past.

Adding to their vibrant cultural landscape, Sheerness and Sittingbourne are home to three thriving local radio stations, providing platforms for local voices, music, and stories that connect communities every day. The bid is centred on the theme of “building bridges”, inspired by the crossing linking the Isle of Sheppey with the mainland. The programme aims to use culture as a force to connect communities, link past and future and open new opportunities for residents.

It also recognises local challenges, including unequal access to cultural opportunities and limited pathways into creative careers for young people. The Town of Culture programme seeks to address these issues by increasing participation, developing skills, and strengthening community bonds.

Exciting Cultural Activities Planned Planned activities include major local events such as the Sittingbourne Carnival and the Sheppey Festival, alongside innovative initiatives like a Thames sailing barge regatta and the revival of the Queenborough Medieval Fair. Young people will play a central role in creative projects, skill-building, and telling the story of their communities, while older residents will be involved in sharing and preserving local heritage through storytelling and community-led activity.

The bid aims to leave a lasting legacy beyond 2028, including supporting local talent, boosting the creative economy, and linking cultural initiatives to emerging industries and future employment opportunities.

Kevin McKenna MP told SFM News: “This bid has been shaped by the people of Sheerness and Sittingbourne. It reflects our history, our creativity, and our ambition for the future. Culture has the power to bring people together, build confidence, and create opportunity. This is about making sure no one is left behind and giving our communities the platform they deserve. By 2028, we want to show the country what is possible when our communities come together with pride and belief.”

Stay tuned to 106.9 SFM and keep an eye on our socials for updates on this exciting project and we will be the first to keep you up-to-date with the latest developments.