Your Questions

What does being given a City Status mean?

City status in the United Kingdom is granted by the monarch of the United Kingdom to a select group of communities: as of 2014, there are 69 cities in the United Kingdom—51 in England, 6 in Wales, 7 in Scotland, and 5 in Northern Ireland. Although it carries no special rights, the status of city can be a marker of prestige and confer local pride.

What is the difference between a town and a city?

In general, any place with more than 2,500 residents can be considered a city, and anything with fewer residents can be considered a town.

Doesn't a city have to have a cathedral?

While many people think that a city contains a cathedral, this is a medieval rule that’s not in place today.

Why is this happening now?

As part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee next year, as well as an extra bank holiday, the monarch will give another handful of towns in the UK city status.

Councils have until the deadline on December 8 2021 to make their bid for the status change.

What happens when a town becomes a city?

Not a lot happens when a town becomes a city as cities don’t get any tax breaks. They also don’t get any additional powers or new architectural monuments to signify their status.

There are two main reasons why a town may want to become a city, according to experts in the area. They are more possible opportunities for economic growth and to mark the city’s achievements.

Will council tax and business rates go up if we become a city?

No. Winning city status does not lead to increases in council tax or tax or business rates.

Will winning City Status give us more money to fix problems such as pot holes and put back on street lighting?

The City Status competition does not provide extra financial investment in itself but it could open the door to more funding opportunities.

Is this all a waste of time if we are not successful?

Not only is this a submission for City Status is is also a great document we can use to raise awareness of Boston’s story, helping people learn new things about the borough, attracting visitors, and continue to build a deeper sense of civic pride within our communities.