Rugby’s MP has backed Coventry’s bid to be the UK’s next City of Culture, with the town set to benefit from a successful bid from our nearest city.
Mark joined fellow MPs from all parties representing seats in the West Midlands to show his support for Coventry’s bid this week. The race to find the UK’s next city of culture was launched earlier this week by Culture Minister the Rt. Hon. Matt Hancock MP in Hull.
Although the process for bidding to be the UK’s City of Culture 2021 has only been announced this week, the Coventry City of Culture Trust has been preparing their bid for more than a year.
Speaking about the supporting Coventry’s bid, Mark said:
“Rugby has historically had very close links with Coventry, with many Rugby residents travelling to Coventry to work or for leisure. Bringing the UK’s City of Culture to Coventry would be a great boost for the whole of Warwickshire, with its rich history of sport and the arts. From Coventry Cathedral to the birthplace of Shakespeare, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”
Mark continued:
“In Rugby we have recently seen the opening of the World Rugby Hall of Fame, which has already proved a great attraction for tourists. If Coventry were selected as the UK’s City of Culture, Rugby’s close connections and rich history will make it ideal an ideal destination for visitors coming to see the historic sights in Coventry and our local economy here in Rugby would stand to benefit.”
Mark concluded:
“I was very pleased to join fellow MPs from across Warwickshire and the West Midlands supporting Coventry’s bid. It would bring millions to the local economy and help to put the West Midlands well and truly on the map.”
David Burbidge, the chair of the City of Culture Trust, added:
“Coventry has moved people by car, by jet plane and bicycle over the years and continues to do so through culture. We have learned much about what the city has to offer during the past 12 months but also the many issues we believe City of Culture can help to tackle. Winning would bring so many benefits to the city and the West Midlands.”