Malton & Norton UK Town of Culture community consultation

We think Malton and Norton have the potential to jointly become the first UK Town of Culture. And we are asking you to contribute your ideas to help us build our bid. How could we celebrate the heritage, culture and creativity of our communities in the two towns?

Please take some time to answer these questions. They should take around 5minutes to complete. The closing date for this survey is 9th March 2026.

What is Town of Culture?
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport launched the Town of Culture competition in early 2026. The first stage is an Expression of Interest by 31st March. Shortlisted towns in each category will then receive £60,000 to help them design their full bid. The winning town will receive £3million to deliver a cultural programme in 2028. Two finalist towns receive £250,000 each.

Malton and Norton Town Councils have formed a steering group to develop this exciting opportunity to enter our towns under the small town (under 20,000 population) category. North Yorkshire Council will support any credible bids by towns wishing to enter.

To find out more about the DCMS UK Town of Culture competition click UK Town of Culture

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* 1. Do you support Malton and Norton's UK Town of Culture bid?

Yes

Please tell us a little more about the reasons for your answer.

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* 2. What do you believe is Malton and Norton's unique story? What is special about our two towns?

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* 3. How could we celebrate our story across the two towns?

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* 4. What specific types of activity would you like to see, do or take part in as part of the UK Town of Culture programme? Please select all that apply:

Festivals e.g music, film, visual arts

Creative workshops

Activities specifically for young people

Exhibitions

Talks and tours

Theatre performances

Events / activities / performances from local artists / creatives / musicians etc

Events / activities / performances from national artists / creatives / musicians

Digital arts

Please provide any other suggestions you have for types of events, activities or initiatives that could form part of this programme

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* 5. It is particularly important to us that our programme involves young people. Please share any ideas you have for how young people could be involved, or for events, activities and opportunities for young people in the programme.

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* 6. How can we ensure that Malton and Norton's UK Town of Culture programme is inclusive for everyone? Please share any ideas here.

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* 7. What difference could being UK Town of Culture make to the people and spaces of Malton and Norton?

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* 8. How would you want to be kept informed about / learn about events and opportunities in the UK Town of Culture bid and programme?

On a website

Email newsletter

Social media - Facebook

Social media - Instagram

Posters / fliers in the towns

Meetings / drop-ins in venues around the two towns

Please add any other form of communication you would prefer:

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* 9. What should the legacy of Malton and Norton's UK Town of Culture programme be? How can we achieve something long-lasting? Please share any ideas here