• Henry Smith MP is backing Crawley’s bid for city status as it is confirmed that 39 places across the UK have entered the competition to gain city status as part of the celebrations for the Queen’s 2022 Platinum Jubilee.
• Gaining city status can provide a boost to local communities and open up new opportunities, as seen with previous winners Perth and Preston where the local economies have benefited from their improved national and global standing.
• Applications will be judged by experts on a town’s distinct identity and community – with the chance to bring a number of benefits to local communities as the Government levels up the country.

Henry Smith MP has welcomed the news that Crawley has applied to win city status as part of a competition in honour of the 2022 Platinum Jubilee – a move which could raise the town’s status and profile and support the local economy.

A total of 39 places across the UK and British Overseas Territories have applied to the competition which is part of a series of planned celebrations to mark HM The Queen’s historic 70 year reign.

Henry said;

“City status can provide places with the chance to gain better recognition and open up new opportunities, as well as bringing a boost to local economies.

“I fully back Crawley’s bid to be considered for city status in honour of Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. This is an opportunity to promote and boost our community with the investment, jobs and opportunities that previous winners have enjoyed.

“This is another example of the Government levelling up every corner of the country as we champion communities and build back better from the pandemic.

“I’ve been pleased to raise our local application in the House of Commons and I’m proud to back the bid!”

Communities living in previous winning towns, including Perth and Preston, have benefitted from the jobs and opportunities which the recognition brought to their areas through their increased national and global standing. The status brings attention from customers and investors, and promotes the area as a place to do business.

In another first and unlike previous competitions, an expert panel will work closely with ministers to make their recommendations, before being approved by HM The Queen.