Swansea is one of 11 cities to put its name forward to become the UK City of Culture in 2017.
Culture Minister Ed Vaizey says cities will benefit from taking part in the bidding to become 2017 Capital of Culture.
"It tends to bring together cultural organisations together with the city council, together with local communities"
"I would certainly say the winning bid shouldn't be one that's a top-down bid written in the city council office. It should be one that engages the whole of the local population".
Swansea is one of 11 cities to put its name forward to become the UK City of Culture in 2017.
Swansea Bay - covering Swansea, Carmarthenshire, Neath and Port Talbot - will have until 30th April to submit a bid.
– Ed Vaizey, Culture MinisterThis is fantastic news and shows the appetite for the prestigious 'City of Culture' title is in healthy supply right across the length and breadth of the country. The competition brings together communities and creates economic and social benefits and I am pleased to see so many local authorities and different partners coming together. I wish all 11 cities the best of luck.