Research and analysis

Evidence review: UK City of Culture programme

Reports prepared by Warwick Business School about the UK City of Culture programme.

Documents

Details

DCMS commissioned the University of Warwick (Warwick Business School) to undertake an evidence review of the impact of the UK Cities of Culture programme. The research provides an assessment of the outcomes and impacts of the UK CoC programme to date and its value for money.

Paper 1 outlines a proposed theory of change for the UK CoC programme, detailing impact areas, outcomes, and indicator measures, supported by explanations and evidence. Paper 2, a technical report, conducts a systematic review of current evaluations and research evidence for the UK CoC and (where applicable) the European Capital of Culture programme, evaluating the evidence, host city characteristics, the legacy effects, and value for money.

Updates to this page

Published 24 April 2025

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