Shildon Town Council submits a Bid for Town of Culture 2028
Shildon Town Council are very excited to announce that a bid for the Town of Culture in 2028 has been submitted in partnership with Locomotion Museum, local MP Sam Rushworth, Railway Institute and Friends of Stockton to Darlington Railway and other local organisations. The bid builds on Shildon’s heritage while confronting the challenges that shape everyday life for many residents.
Following a year dedicated to celebrating the Bicentenary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, Shildon was formally recognised for its industrial heritage. In September 2025, a World Origin Site plaque was unveiled in Shildon at the former Masons Arms site, explicitly identifying the location as “the birthplace of the modern railway”. Bringing a lot of pride for Shildon residents.
Shildon is famously a small town that changed the world. In 1825, a steam engine later known as Locomotion No.1 set off from the town, driven by George Stephenson, helping ignite the railway revolution. Under Timothy Hackworth, the town became a major industrial centre, employing thousands and exporting rail vehicles globally. Making Shildon a proud place to life for many of the residents.
However, after the closure of the wagon works in 1984 had a profound impact, and today Shildon faces high levels of deprivation, the loss of key services and limited opportunities for young people. Meanwhile, Locomotion attracts visitors from across the UK and beyond. The town centre, doesn’t see economically benefit, making the town struggle and go into decline like many in the UK.
The Bid will prioritise bringing heritage assets back into use, including Daniel Adamson’s coach house, alongside a community-led “museum of Shildon life”. Which will help increase footfall, encourage longer visits and support local businesses.
Sarah Price, CEO of Locomotion, said: “Locomotion is delighted to support Shildon’s bid to be Town of Culture in 2028. Our bid places the people of Shildon at the heart of an ambitious programme to catapult our town onto the global stage where it truly belongs.”
Creating opportunities for young people is another priority. With around one in six not in education, employment or training, the bid includes work experience and apprenticeships across heritage, engineering, tourism and events. Sam Rushworth MP said: “Our bid highlights Shildon’s remarkable heritage and makes a strong argument for how investment in culture and heritage can open opportunities for young people in the town to learn new skills.”
The bid also focuses on rebuilding community pride through festivals, events and intergenerational projects, building on activity linked to the bicentenary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway. David Bell, Mayor of Shildon, said: “This bid is about more than a title – it’s about giving people in Shildon the chance to shape their own future and create real opportunity.”
Born and raised in Shildon at the hight of its good times it is GREAT news to see the town bidding for this fantastic opportunity to get itself on the map. Despite having lived in Lancashire for many years I have never forgotten my roots and taken every opportunity to remind people of Shildons place in the history books. At 82 years of age may I wish you all success with the bid!
Great news from one born and raised in Shudon at the hight of its successful era. Nevertheless, this is the best news yet and as one who has not forgotten his roots while living in Lacashire may I wish the bid all the best. Shildon should be proud and bang the drum loud and long.