More than 2,000 residents, community groups, arts organisations and businesses helped shape the bid, which was submitted to the Government on Monday. Its introduction declares: “Just as we helped build the first industrial future, Middlesbrough is ready to help build what comes next.” A photo featuring Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke, Deputy Mayor Cllr Philippa Storey and representatives from the Middlesbrough Cultural Partnership (Image: SUPPLIED)A shortlist of four will be announced in October, with the winner revealed in January 2027. The Middlesbrough bid has been developed by Middlesbrough Council, Teesside University, Middlesbrough Cultural Partnership and Tees Valley Combined Authority. Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said the bid was “packed with hope and ambition for our future”.