PLANS for Southampton to become UK City of Culture 2025 have moved a step forward.

Civic chiefs have approved the funding and support Southampton City Council will provide to the Southampton 2025 Trust if the city’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2025 is successful.

It comes as the trust is responsible for the delivery of the bid on behalf of the city. 

The amount of money that will be invested to support the initiative has not been disclosed as civic chiefs said it is "commercially sensitive" and "would prejudice Southampton 2025 Trust’s ability to fairly and competitively bid to become UK City of Culture 2025".

But Cllr Satvir Kaur, cabinet member for  culture and homes, said the money will only be used if the bid is successful.

Talking about the funding she said: "[It] must be used in the best way possible which is why we have carefully considered the amount, knowing that we will instantly get return."

Cllr Kaur stressed the positive impact the successful bid would have on the city and thanked all councillors as the plans were unanimously approved.

She added: "Culture has become the beating heart of Southampton; used to grow the local economy, create city pride, bring people together, and help to address social needs. Bidding for UK City of Culture 2025 is our chance to put Southampton on the map. We are using culture as an engine towards covid-recovery, while enriching lives and transforming communities. So that together we can create a city to be proud of, where people want to work, live, visit and enjoy." The city council said UK City of Culture status provides the winning city with "huge profile and creates business opportunities ".

The authority said previous winners have seen a boost to their economy "in the order of hundreds of millions of pounds".

The council said the decision to earmark funding for the project shows its commitment to the city. The plans were also backed by the opposition party.

Cllr Dan Fitzhenry, leader of the opposition, said: "The last year has been tough, but our sense of spirit and belief is strong, our bid will help us rebuild and make the most of our potential. "