The programme was a partnership between the Millennium Commission and Arts Council England. It built upon the successful European Capital of Culture 2008 competition, run in 2003, which generated huge support in all sectors of the community.

Projects needed to demonstrate that culture and the arts were central to the life of an urban area, and would contribute towards its regeneration and include cultural programmes with strong public support.

All consortia applying had to include a local authority with a minimum population of 120,000 (105,000 in the case of Northern Ireland). Applicants awarded funding received up to 50% of the total costs of their programmes with the rest being secured from other sources.

Activities took place between 2004-2006. To see a list of grants awarded click here.

Millennium Commission funding of £13.5 million covered the whole of the UK. Arts Council England provided £6 million for English programmes only.