Statement from Wandsworth Borough Council.
We’re delighted to announce that Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, has chosen Wandsworth to become London Borough of Culture 2025.
The announcement was made at a ceremony at City Hall earlier.
The Mayor of London’s culture scheme provides the winning borough with funding towards a year-long programme which celebrates local culture and heritage. The title helps to attract inward investment, create new employment opportunities, improve creative programmes and widen access to culture for residents.
The announcement is a huge boost to Wandsworth’s ability to develop the borough’s cultural and heritage sector.”
Simon Hogg, Leader of Wandsworth Council said: “Wandsworth is a fantastic place to live. Our strong, diverse communities represent the best of modern Britain. Our year as London Borough of Culture will supercharge our already vibrant, diverse sector made up of world class institutions and grassroots talent.
“A massive thank you to the hundreds of community organisations, creative venues, schools, businesses and residents of all ages who helped shape our bid. This is brilliant news for our borough.
“As a result of the Mayor’s funding we’re going to deliver a year to remember – using the power of culture to transform lives, connect people and improve wellbeing, never more important than now.
“Let’s do this together!”
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London said: “I am thrilled to be announcing the London Borough of Culture for 2025 and 2027.
This prestigious award has become a cornerstone in the capital’s calendar, using the power of culture to unite communities, transform young people’s lives and boost the local economy. Cultural programmes like the London Borough of Culture form a crucial part of our work to provide positive opportunities for young people, who have seen youth clubs taken away from them due to more than a decade of Government cuts. We’ve seen the difference that it’s made in winning boroughs Waltham Forest, Brent, Lewisham and Croydon, and I’m excited to see Wandsworth and Haringey’s fantastic ideas come to life as we build a better London for all.”
Tarek Iskander, Artistic Director & CEO of Battersea Arts Centre said: ”Wandsworth has always been a home for the pioneering and the under-represented, the visionary and the mischievous. It’s that uncompromising, radical and rebellious spirit that positions us to deliver an outstanding year as London Borough of Culture.
“It’s an opportunity that will bring together the rich tapestry of local creative and voluntary partners, with the collective purpose of transforming the health, prospects and happiness for the people of Wandsworth. The legacy of this vital work, and what it will do for redressing inequalities, will be felt for decades to come.”
17 year old Koko Idiong, who presented Wandsworth’s bid to the GLA said: “In Wandsworth we are incredibly fortunate to have such a diverse arts and culture scene and being London Borough of Culture 2025 will help this expand to our wider community. The opportunities for young people will be pivotal in unlocking potential and aiding wellbeing, and we are excited to share what is going to be an action-packed and grounded year that puts the people of Wandsworth first. Let’s do this together!”
Wandsworth is home to Battersea Arts Centre, the Royal College of Art, National Opera Studio and Royal Academy of Dance.
The borough is also home to grassroots organisations like Tara Theatre, Oily Cart, Sprout Art, Wandsworth Music, Sound Minds, Putney Arts Theatre, Tavaziva Dance, Matt’s Gallery, World Heart Beat and Baked Bean Theatre Company.
The borough has a range of other attractions in Battersea Park, Tooting Market, Battersea Power Station, and the Clapham Grand.
