Birmingham shortlisted for Capital of Culture

Birmingham has been shortlisted to become European Capital of Culture in 2008, as one of six British cities still in the running for the title.

The shortlist was announced on 30 October. Birmingham will now compete with Bristol, Cardiff, Liverpool, Newcastle and Gateshead, and Oxford, with the winner due to be chosen next year.

A city of culture

Birmingham's bid highlights the city's cultural strengths, from its world-class orchestra and ballet company to its museums, galleries, theatres and festivals. The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Birmingham Royal Ballet and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre are among the institutions at the heart of the bid.

The bid also celebrates the city's diversity. Birmingham is one of the most multicultural cities in Europe, and its communities bring a wide range of music, food, festivals and traditions.

Supporters say the city's transformation in recent years, with new buildings such as Symphony Hall, the International Convention Centre, Brindleyplace and Millennium Point, shows that it can deliver on its promises.

Strong competition

The competition is fierce. Twelve cities entered the contest, and the six on the shortlist all have strong claims. Liverpool, Newcastle and Gateshead, and Bristol are also major regional cities with ambitious regeneration plans, while Oxford is famous around the world for its university and history, and Cardiff has put forward a strong bid as the Welsh capital.

The judging panel will now visit each city and look in detail at its plans. A decision is expected next summer.

Why it matters

The title of European Capital of Culture is awarded each year to cities across Europe, and in 2008 it is Britain's turn. The winner will be able to stage a year-long programme of cultural events, attracting visitors, investment and international attention.

Glasgow, which held the title in 1990, is often cited as an example of how it can transform a city's fortunes and image. Its year as European City of Culture is credited with helping to change the way the city is seen, both at home and abroad.

The bid team

Birmingham's bid is being led by the city council, working with arts organisations, businesses and community groups. They have organised events, consultations and campaigns to build support for the bid across the city.

City leaders say they are in it to win, and that the title would help Birmingham to build on the progress it has made in recent years.

What happens next

The next few months will be crucial, as the shortlisted cities make their final case to the judges. Birmingham's bid team will be working hard to show that the city has the ambition, the ideas and the support to make 2008 a success.

Whatever the outcome, supporters say the bid has already helped to raise the city's profile and bring people together around a shared vision for its future.