Ealing Council says the ambitious proposal is focused on securing Ealing's cultural legacy for the future and building on its impressive cultural history.

From a century of classic movies produced at Ealing Studios to its key role in the creation of Britain's world-conquering rock scene in the 60s, culture is central to the rich and vibrant communities across its seven towns.

The borough is home to diverse talents and voices, from the British Bhangra scene to the UFO Steelband, from the Blues Dharma fusion band to Bollywood dancing from Punjabi Theatre Academy.

It also includes Pitzhanger Manor and Gallery, the Gunnersbury Park Museum and the North Acton and Park Royal Creative Enterprise Zone, home to a thriving community of artists and designers.

Councillor Peter Mason, leader of Ealing Council, said: "Our bid will galvanise, energise and maybe even revolutionise our cultural grassroots, creating a diverse, relevant and sustainable new cultural heritage for the future.

The Who at The Ealing Club in 1965 (credit: Ealing Council).

"We want residents to be front and centre of cultural life in Ealing, and to work with us to develop a cultural hub in each of our seven towns."

Cllr Polly Knewstub, cabinet member for thriving communities, said: "Becoming London's Borough of Culture would help us create a cultural legacy in Ealing.

"Not only would it be a year of fabulous events, it would mean we can support our cultural organisations and creative businesses to build their resilience for the future.

"We really want to involve everyone - already we are getting brilliant ideas from the many residents, local artists and community organisations who have responded to our call for support – so keep them coming!"

President of The Questors Theatre, Dame Judi Dench (credit: Ealing Council).

The bid is gathering support from residents, creatives, businesses, and Dame Judi Dench.

The Oscar winner and president of The Questors Theatre, the largest independent community theatre in Europe, said: "The commitment of Ealing Council to encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to be creative has created a truly inspiring cultural manifesto through the input of thousands of local people and organisations.

"Ealing's ambitious bid to be London Borough of Culture will transform and promote arts, music and culture across the seven towns of the borough and create a lasting legacy.

"At the heart of this will be the enjoyment of people working together and creating transformative opportunities for residents, across all ages and all communities."

The Mayor of London's decision on the winning bid will be announced spring 2024.

Ealing's bid to be London Borough of Culture 2025 also includes an option to be considered for London Borough of Culture 2027.

Residents can show their support and share ideas for the bid at ealing2025.org.

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