THE HISTORIC county town of Warwickshire could become a city.
As part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations next year, Warwick, Warwickshire’s county for more than 1,100 years, will take part in a competition which will see the Queen confer city status on one or more towns in 2022.
Warwick Town Council voted to take part in the Civic Honours contest to become Warwickshire’s only city in the year the Queen marks 70 years of her reign.
Council deputy leader Noel Butler said: “The Civic Honours competition is the perfect opportunity for Warwick to showcase its civic pride, our historic and cultural identity, in addition to being a great place to work and live.
“We have the castle, a magnificent church, many historic buildings, a racecourse, beautiful parks, a great cultural backdrop, and a rich history that has many connections to the Royal Family. So why shouldn’t this be recognised by becoming a city alongside some of the best-known places in the UK?
“Not only will becoming a city be a great honour for Warwick, but will bring a multitude of benefits. City status will elevate the town’s profile nationally and internationally and enhance its attractiveness as a place to live. It will also attract business, providing a much-needed boost to the local commerce, hospitality and tourism sectors. This can only have a positive impact on the town and the wider area.”
He added the town had shown confidence in ‘weathering an incredibly difficult period’ and the status would help the area move forward.
The town council has been backed by organisations including Warwick Castle, the Lord Leycester Hospital, Warwick Chamber of Trade and Warwick Schools Foundation.
Warwick Castle spokesman Nick Blofeld said: “We are delighted to back Warwick Town Council in its efforts to gain city status. Warwick has a rich history that we’re proud to be a part of and always want to see recognised on an international stage. Becoming a city in such a major year would not only be a moment of great pride, but something that is good for the town in so many ways.”
The competition is free and the Government has told applicants not to undergo unnecessary expense in preparing the applications, which will be judged on content.
Government ministers will recommend which town or towns should be given the honour of city status and the final decision will be made by the Queen herself.
The council has set up an online form where people can log messages of support and comments.
Residents and businesses can find out more at drop-in sessions on Thursday October 28 from 5.30pm to 6.30pm and on Friday October 29 from 12.30pm to 1.30pm.
Visit www.warwicktowncouncil.gov.uk/citystatus for information and to add comments.
