CRAWLEY is exploring the possibility of applying for city status on the 75th anniversary of becoming a town.
Crawley Borough councillors will discuss whether to enter the civic honours competition, part of the Queen's platinum jubilee celebrations at a meeting on October 20.
The civic honours competition, which is free to enter, will bestow city status on towns in the UK.
It aims to provide towns with the chance to showcase civic pride with the town's heritage and a record of innovation.
It's thought city statues would help put Crawley on the map and could bring more opportunities to the area.
A Crawley bid would be based around the central message of "75 years ago, you made Crawley a new town. In that time, we have grown to become a regional powerhouse. Imagine what we can achieve if you made us a new ".
A spokesman for the council said: "A bid for city status would certainly raise Crawley's profile, enhancing its reputation and ensuring it is a place that is recognised, helping to put Crawley on the map.
"Given the significant economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on our town, which is well documented and evidenced, securing city status will bring with it prestige, standing and an opportunity to lever investment to aid our recovery.
"Studies suggest that a successful bid for city status could bring further investment and employment opportunities."
The report to councillors highlights the benefits of entering the competition, even if a bid is unsuccessful.
It provides an opportunity to celebrate and promote the town's strengths, including its economic power, sense of community and long-term regeneration programme.
The bid is also hoped to rebuild optimism after suffering from economic effects from the pandemic.
Councillor Peter Lamb said: "If councillors agree to enter the competition, Crawley could become the first new town ever to be granted city status – in the same year that we celebrate our diamond anniversary.
"Bidding is free and a simple process, so there is everything to gain and nothing to lose, if we do bid it gives us the chance to shout loudly about our strengths and achievements on a national scale while rebuilding optimism and pride locally."
If it is decided to enter, a consultation asking for the views of residents, businesses and stakeholders will begin on October 21 and run for four weeks.
The closing date for bids to be submitted is December 8. The government will announce the winners of the competition in early 2022.
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