Dudley has been a city in the making for millions of years.
To be officially recognised as a city in the year of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee would not only recognise Dudley’s unique and exceptional heritage but would also help our transition to a modern, sustainable community at the heart of Britain.
It would give the area’s diverse communities an additional boost in self confidence as we move towards a brighter future.
:: read the attached city status bid and narrative for more information.
Dudley is a borough that regularly punches above its weight.
Our story had its origins some 470 million years ago, during the Silurian age when limestone was laid down and the present day west midlands was a tropical sea. This geological legacy helped create the landscape we love and the raw materials that helped inspire a revolution that shook the world.
The father of the industrial revolution was Abraham Darby, born in Dudley 1678 and from that time our international reputation for metalworking and glass industries grew and remains very much alive today.
Today the borough stands on the brink of a new regeneration revolution, with a £300m programme for the area.
Our ambition is to transform each of our neighbourhoods, within an overall vision for the community as a whole.
The year of Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee is set to be one of the biggest years in Dudley’s borough history.
Our submission for city centre status builds on our history as well as our established and nationally recognised tourist attractions, bustling retail centre and the host of entertainment features within the town. Our regeneration plans are exciting and considerable and a catalyst for future investment and success.
:: view Dudley city status photo set (flickr)
August 22, 2011 - Back the bid
Dudley’s bid for city status took to the town’s streets.
:: more on the city status bid taking to the town's streets
July 22, 2011 - Dudley Council leader answers your city status questions
People put their questions about Dudley borough’s city status bid to the leader of the council via facebook.
:: more on leader of the council answering questions on facebook
May 26, 2011 - Dudley city status bid
Council bosses highlighted Dudley’s rich history and heritage as the “jewel in the crown” of an application submitted for city status.
:: more on Dudley city status bid announcement
Attached is more information on Dudley's city status bid and narrative.
