16/07/2010
Derry~Londonderry will be the UK City of Culture 2013. After months of campaigning and anticipation the news that the Derry bid had been successful was finally confirmed at the official announcement in Liverpool last night.
Having made it through to the final four shortlisted cities, Derry triumphed over Birmingham, Norwich and Sheffield to take the win.
The City of Culture title is designed to help areas boost their economy through tourism and the creative industries, as well as promoting regeneration.
Rosemary Kelly OBE, Chairman of the Arts Council welcomed the news saying: "Within Northern Ireland, Londonderry has long been recognised as the homeland of many of our greatest writers, artists and musicians and now, having been awarded the City of Culture title, 2013 will be the year when the rest of the world will get to hear about just how much Derry has to offer.
In recent times Derry has benefited enormously from the substantial investment made by the Arts Council and its partners in its key arts venues. This has undoubtedly contributed to its success in bringing this title home. Ultimately of course it's the city's people who should take credit for this award because it is thanks to their vision and passion that Derry has confirmed its place as an international tourist destination and a place where its citizens can feel truly proud to live."
The momentous win means that in 2013 Northern Ireland's second city will play host to a year-long celebration of culture, opening its doors to visitors from across the world. Plans are already in place to hold a pageant on the River Foyle celebrating the return of St Columba to Ireland, a contemporary music festival and a visual arts festival.
Other elements of the winning bid included giving children across the city access to music training and a new commission from the Field Day theatre company.
The Derry~Londonderry bid was led by Derry City Council in a close working partnership with Ilex and the Strategic Investment Board.
