Wrexham City of Culture 2029 bid backed by business leaders
Their support was voiced at a recent meeting of Wrexham Business Professionals, where Ken Skates MS, the Welsh Government's Minister for North Wales and Transport, described the campaign as a major opportunity for the city.
Mr Skates said: "The stars are aligning perfectly for us.
"The City of Culture campaign is a huge opportunity to draw in investment of £200 million, boosting local pride and in terms of the value of local, national and global exposure."
Wrexham narrowly missed out on the title last time, losing to Bradford, which has since reported an estimated £700 million economic boost from its year as City of Culture.
Wrexham County Borough Council, with the backing of the Welsh Government, is now determined to secure the title in 2029.
Mr Skates said: "It can bring new employment opportunities with thousands of new jobs, improve transport links locally and nationally with massive benefits to Wrexham and the whole of North Wales.
"I want to appeal to you to support this ambitious bid no matter what happens in next year's Senedd elections."
He highlighted the long-term benefits of the Wrexham Gateway project, which is set to transform the city's transport infrastructure by 2029.
Mr Skates said: "By 2029 we will see Wrexham's railway station redeveloped, new office and leisure blocks, a transport interchange, an events space and a green corridor into the city centre.
"Not long ago we'd be celebrating if Wrexham got a new M&S and now look at what we're on the verge of.
"The football team is repeatedly winning promotion and with your support Wrexham can be crowned City of Culture too."
Amanda Davies, director of Wrexham's City of Culture bid, outlined the campaign at the meeting.
Ms Davies said: "This would be worth a shedload of money for Wrexham and for its cultural regeneration.
"The City of Culture competition is run by the UK Government's Department of Culture, Media and Sport every four years and winning it has made a phenomenal difference to Bradford."
She emphasised that winning the title could unlock £200 million in funding and help revitalise under-supported areas of the city.
Ms Davies said: "There are areas of Wrexham that are in dire need of support and that's where we can make a difference and that would be transformational."
The winner will be announced in May 2026.
Caroline Platt, managing director of Platts Agricultural Ltd in Llay, said the title could help attract and retain talent.
Ms Platt said: "Wrexham has a very strong case and this is about getting behind the bid and keeping the momentum going.
"It would be huge for us to win.
"It would encourage talent to the area and help fill the skills gap while helping us retain staff and create more job opportunities."
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Ian Edwards, a member of Wrexham Business Professionals, said improved transport connectivity would benefit businesses across the region.
Mr Edwards said: "Winning the title has to be beneficial for anyone running a business in Wrexham."
Louise Harper, another member of the group, said the bid reflects the region's ambition.
Ms Harper said: "Getting behind the City of Culture bid chimes perfectly with Wrexham Business Professionals' mission to work together to promote regional prosperity and shine a light on the enterprise and expertise that exists in the region."
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