Strabane in County Tyrone has been shortlisted as a contender for the inaugural UK Town of Culture competition, which comes with a top prize of £3 million.

Independent councillor Paul Gallagher said he and some constituents have concerns about the inclusion of "UK" in the competition title. He told BBC Radio Foyle that the town is in need of investment, but some residents are unwilling to be part of a UK culture bid.

"Strabane, it's not only a nationalist town, it's a Republican town, and that needs to be taken on board," he said.

Ulster Unionist councillor Derek Hussey rejected Gallagher's comments, saying he failed to understand them. He said Strabane is part of the United Kingdom and referred to the Belfast Agreement as setting aside questions of sovereignty.

"I don't see why an Irish identity cannot be included within a UK Town of Culture because the United Kingdom covers a wide range of identities and nationalities," Hussey said.

The competition is run by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and was inspired by the success of the UK City of Culture. Londonderry won that title in 2013.

Strabane is one of 15 locations shortlisted from almost 400 applications. The winner will be named UK Town of Culture 2028 and receive £3 million to develop a year-long programme of cultural events. Two finalists will receive £250,000 each.

The bid has support from most councillors, including Sinn Féin Mayor of Derry and Strabane Grace Uí Niallais, as well as singer-songwriter Paul Brady and BBC Radio presenter Hugo Duncan.

The public has been asked to contribute ideas for the final bid, which is due by the end of November. Derry City and Strabane District Council has been contacted for comment.