In April, Channel 4 launched its ‘4 All the UK’ strategy aiming to extend creativity and nationwide spending across the country. It has been announced that Brighton & Hove is one of 13 locations shortlisted as a potential home for one of its creative hubs. The broadcasting company plans to open three new creative hubs as well as a brand-new national HQ, aiming to bring at least 300 jobs to the regions chosen.
Brighton & Hove is the only location in the South East to be shortlisted so, if speculation is permitted, it looks like we are definitely in the running. Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, Cllr Daniel Yates said “we are delighted to have been shortlisted by Channel 4 as a potential home for one of two new creative hubs.”
“We worked with our creative partners locally, and made a strong submission which focussed on our strengths as a centre for creativity and digital innovation as well as our distinctive character, which we believe aligns well with Channel 4’s brand. Brighton & Hove is distinctly different and as we proceed to the next stage of the pitch process, we will work with our partners to demonstrate all our city has to offer.”
The decision will be made in October 4 months after Channel 4 bosses visit the nominated cities in June. The “heart” of their strategy is to significantly increase Channel 4’s Regions & Nations content spend from 35% to 50%. They have said it “reflects both external analysis and feedback from the industry that increasing spend would have the greatest impact on regional economies and jobs.” They additionally want to reduce their London footprint with space in their current office being given to regional and national production companies.
Alex Mahon, Channel 4’s Chief Executive, said “with this new strategy we will go even further to make sure that people right across the UK are represented on screen and in the make up of our own organisation – and it will also build on what we already do to support creative businesses, jobs and economies in the Nations & Regions.”
The relocation of Channel 4 to various places across the country will provide a boost in economy, more jobs and the encouragement of more creativity in places that don’t necessarily have an infrastructure for the industry already in place. Let’s keep our fingers crossed that it will come here!
