Wrexham's bid to win the title of UK City of Culture 2025 must be separate from plans to upgrade the town's status, says a senior councillor.
In October, Wrexham was one of eight places in the UK long-listed to become the next city of culture.
Bookmakers have made Wrexham a joint-favourite to replace current hosts Coventry.
However, the leader of the Conservative group on Wrexham Council is concerned the application to hold a year of cultural festivities could be tarnished.
It comes as the local authority looks set to enter an unrelated competition to gain city status despite opposition.
Cllr Hugh Jones, the council's lead member for people, said it was not necessary for Wrexham to become a city to earn the cultural title.
Speaking at a media briefing, he said "We've made it very clear the two are totally and utterly separate.
"There is no link at all between the two.
"The only common feature is the word 'city' but apart from that there is no link or relationship.
"We know that city status is controversial, but the fact that all the groups on the council are supporting this bid is evidence this something that the whole of Wrexham wanted to see happen.
"I'm not tempting fate but if you look at the betting odds, we are the joint favourites and I think that demonstrates the strength of the bid."
Executive board members will be asked to support proposals surrounding the City of Culture bid when they meet on Tuesday.
The shortlist will be announced in March next year, with the winner being crowned in May.
