Hain responds with delight to City of Culture Shortlist

MP for Neath Peter Hain has spoken of his delight following the announcement that Swansea Bay has been shortlisted for the 2017 City of Culture award.

Organised by the Department of Media, Culture and Sport, the award aims to emulate the economic success brought to Liverpool by the European Capital of Culture Award in 2008. Swansea Bay is competing against Dundee, Hull and Leicester for the award, with the winner due to be announced in November.

The Swansea Bay region encompasses the Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire areas and Mr Hain is keen to point out the benefits that City of Culture status would bring to the local economy.

Mr Hain says, ‘That Swansea Bay has been shortlisted is an outstanding achievement in itself. However, I am greatly optimistic about the Bay’s chances of even greater success. The region has so much to offer in terms of its art, literature, history, music, sport, television and theatre, whilst its numerous award-winning beaches already enjoy an excellent reputation amongst British holidaymakers.’

‘City of Culture Status would offer Swansea Bay greater exposure within the tourist industry, bringing a wealth of economic benefits to the area. I am sure that, like myself, the rest of the community will be crossing their fingers for a positive result towards the end of the year.’