The winning region will host a range of artistic and cultural events
The next cultural district in London is named Wandsworth.
The south London region will hold the title from April 2025, and the winner was announced at an event on Monday.
Simon Hogg, leader of Wandsworth Council, said: “We will be having a year to remember.
“A huge thank you to the hundreds of community organisations, creative venues, schools, businesses and residents of all ages who helped shape our show.”
Image source, Wandsworth Council
The Wandsworth area has a number of tourist attractions including Tooting Market
It was also announced that Haringey had won, and will hold the title from 2027. The two winning towns will each receive £1.35 million from City Hall.
Croydon is the former cultural district of London, and has been holding music and arts events for a year from April 2023.
Wandsworth and Haringey were among several boroughs competing for the role, including Barnet, Ealing, Greenwich, Hammersmith, Fulham, Havering, Merton and Newham.
Wandsworth will receive £1.35 million from City Hall
Cultural Impact Awards worth £200,000 were awarded to Barnet, Merton and Greenwich.
The “cornerstone” of the calendar
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “This prestigious award has become a cornerstone of the capital’s calendar, using the power of culture to unite communities, transform the lives of young people and boost the local economy.
“Cultural programs such as London Culture District form an important part of our work to provide positive opportunities for young people.”
Mr Hogg added: “As a result of the Mayor’s funding, we will deliver a year to remember – using the power of culture to transform lives, connect people and improve wellbeing, which has never been more important.”
Image source, Wandsworth Council
Wandsworth will be planning a year of culture, which has seen previous winners hold events for children and families
Coco Edong, 17, who submitted Wandsworth's bid to the Greater London Authority, said the area had a “diverse arts and cultural scene”.
Wandsworth is home to Battersea Arts Centre, the Royal College of Art, the National Opera Studio and the Royal Academy of Dance.
It houses a range of popular arts organizations and other attractions including Battersea Park, Tooting Market, Battersea Power Station and Clapham Grand.
Piray Ahmed, leader of Haringey Council, said of the town's win in 2027: “We are very pleased, a lot of effort has gone into this.”
She said the year would focus on Haringey as a “rebellious area” and celebrate its “radical history”.
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