A petition has been started after Lancashire County Council withdrew its support for the UK City of Culture 2025 bid with no reasonable explanation.

County Councillor Alan Vincent, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, said after carefully considering the potential costs and benefits of the bid, the council can no longer underwrite it.

He said the council remains committed to an ongoing programme of arts and culture, which is both good for residents and the local economy.

Alan said they will continue to work towards sustainable and reinvigorated offers for Lancashire’s museums and remain committed to cultural services across Lancashire.

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Many Prestonians are not satisfied with this response though, and have started a petition.

People across Lancashire are certain that the bid will be transformational for the people of Lancashire and  will unlock great economic rewards and increase wellbeing as we recover from the damage from Covid-19.

It will promote the county nationally and internationally creating increases in inward investment and tourism, and it will provide jobs and opportunities for many people as proven by previous winners for this prestigious title.

637 people have signed the petition so far, and you can do so here.

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Do you think Lancashire should overturn their decision to pull out of the bidding? Let us know in the comments below.