The borough’s submission for city status has been dispatched to Downing Street for Government chiefs to consider.

The leader of Dudley Council, Patrick Harley and the Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Anne Millward have approved the weighty 60-page document. It contains 50 photographs of the best the borough has to offer, including a number of submissions picked from more than 500 sent in by residents of their favourite places.

The bid also details Dudley’s proud historic past, as well as exciting investment plans for a bright new future. Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of the council, said:

"I have been confident throughout the process that we had what it takes to succeed with this – but having read through the document I am now even more sure.

"It presents a compelling case for us to become the City of Dudley. We can’t do any more now, we will just have to wait and see. But I am very hopeful."

Dudley Council confirmed on Black Country Day in July that it intended to pursue a bid for city status as part of a competition to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations next year. The bid has been officially submitted before the December 8 deadline, and Dudley will now be vying with the likes of Reading, Guildford and Milton Keynes for city designation. Councillor Anne Millward, the Mayor of Dudley, added:

"The bid submission is a fabulous document which really showcases what the borough is all about, from a proud past to the exciting future we are forging.

"It’s been backed by the West Midlands Mayor, by our local MPs, by the Bishop of Dudley, local businesses, and by hundreds and hundreds of residents who got behind us by sending in photos of their favourite places.

"The will is certainly there to succeed with this – and I will have everything crossed that our bid to become the City of Dudley is successful."

A webpage has been set up giving detailed information about the bid, including frequently asked questions about the reasoning behind putting the borough forward. The winners will be announced next year.