The Leader of Wandsworth Council has announced that Wandsworth will join the race for London Borough of Culture 2025.

Over the summer, the council will work with communities across Wandsworth to develop a Borough of Culture proposal that builds on all the creativity and vibrancy that Wandsworth has to offer, from award-winning cultural organisations to heritage and grassroots community groups, freelance creatives and artists.

Simon Hogg said: "We're delighted to be going for Borough of Culture 2025 – it signals real confidence in a changing, modern Wandsworth. We can't wait to show London and the world what our wonderful borough has to offer."

"We need to do this together - so we want to hear your ideas to shape our proposals for the borough's bid."

Kemi Akinola, Deputy Leader of Wandsworth Council, said: "We're incredibly proud of our borough. Wandsworth is full of people who create, innovate and share their time with others in the community.

"Culture is our local identity so we invite everyone living, working and studying in Wandsworth to help showcase our borough so we can win London Borough of Culture in 2025."

The Mayor of London's culture scheme provides the winning borough with funding towards a year-long programme which celebrates local culture and heritage and helps transform people's lives.

Recognising the rich mix of places, artists and communities in Wandsworth, the Borough of Culture title could attract inward investment to develop the borough's cultural and heritage sector, create new employment opportunities and enhance creative programmes for residents to help them lead happier and healthier lives.

Wandsworth is home to world-renowned creative and cultural organisations including Royal College of Art, National Opera Studio and Royal Academy of Dance. They're joined by high-profile and grassroots organisations such as Battersea Arts Centre, Sprout Art, Tara Arts and Baked Bean Theatre Company. The borough is also home to beloved places such as Battersea Park, Tooting Market and Clapham Junction.

If named Borough of Culture, the council will showcase this rich cultural heritage, diversity, and creative spirit of the borough through an exciting array of artistic events, community engagements, and innovative projects.

With its vibrant neighbourhoods and thriving arts scene, the borough's unique identity will be celebrated with a lasting legacy for future generations.

Over the coming months Wandsworth Council will develop the bid, collaborating with people across the borough including local stakeholders, artists, and community groups to develop a compelling vision for the borough. The final bid submission is due in December 2023, and the successful London Borough of Culture for 2025 will be announced in early 2024.

The exciting news comes as the annual Wandsworth Arts Fringe launches with over 130 events taking place across the borough's streets, parks, and venues over the next 17 days. Find out more and view the WAF programme.