Brighton & Hove pitch perfect in bid for Channel 4 creative hub

Executives from Channel 4 were welcomed to the city yesterday as organisations from across Brighton & Hove joined forces to pitch for one of the broadcaster’s new creative hubs.

Channel 4 is looking to establish a new national HQ and two new creative hubs outside London as part of its '4 All the UK' strategy, which will see an increase in spend in the UK’s Nations & Regions.  

In May, Brighton & Hove City Council along with local creative partners, made a submission for one of the new creative hubs. The bid focused on the city’s distinctiveness, independent spirit, diversity, its success as a creative centre, and its connectivity.  

On 30 May it was announced that the city had been shortlisted. It is the only location in the South East in the running. 

Those involved in the bid came together to meet Channel 4 executives visiting the city yesterday.  The bid has received backing from a broad range of creative partners and businesses across the city including the University of Sussex, University of Brighton and Greater Brighton Metropolitan College. 

Representatives from the city’s successful independent production sector have also been heavily involved in the bid. 

Channel 4 executives are making site visits to shortlisted cities over the summer and will announce the successful bidders on 1 October. 

Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, Councillor Daniel Yates, said: “Our bid for one of the new creative hubs is very much a collaborative one and it was great to see organisations from across Brighton & Hove come together to champion the city.  

“We have a lot to offer in terms of creativity and innovation, as well as a being home to a wealth of talent. Having a Channel 4 creative hub would bring jobs, investment and the opportunity to develop skills in a growing industry.”

Adam Tickell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sussex, said: "Brighton & Hove is a diverse ecosystem of creative industries and benefits from a highly skilled workforce. With two outstanding universities, a booming creative sector and a deserved reputation for thinking differently, the city is the perfect location for Channel 4's creative hub." 

Jo Ralling, Director of Brighton Production Hub, said: “We are delighted that Brighton has been shortlisted by Channel 4 and we are very pleased to be part of this collective bid which demonstrates all that this wonderful city has to offer. I can’t think of anywhere else more vibrant, creative and diverse and we have a huge number of talented people and companies living here."