Leeds City Region shortlisted to become home of new national Channel 4 HQ

Leeds City Region’s submission to Channel 4 for the broadcasters’ new National HQ outside of London has officially been shortlisted.

The submission was in a response to the broadcaster’s “4 All the UK” plan to support investment and jobs outside London.

The Leeds City Region has highlighted a number of themes including the region’s strong pool of young, diverse, creative and digitally-savvy talent.

The bid also showcased the opportunity this provides for creative sector investment which currently focused on London and the western side of the UK.

Roger Marsh OBE, chair of the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership, said: “Channel 4’s decision to include us on its shortlist is a significant achievement given some 30 areas put themselves forward to host the new national headquarters or one of the new creative hubs. It is also a signal of the strength of our submission.

“However while this is a positive step there is still a lot of hard work to do to secure the tremendous prize on offer and we will continue to work with our partners to achieve the outcome we all want to see and capitalise upon it.”

“I believe firmly that what Channel 4 is looking for is also what we as a region desire; to harness our youth, celebrate our diversity, embrace our differences, nurture top talent and pioneer new technologies. Ultimately doing this will be the key to both of our successful futures!”

In a joint statement following this announcement by Channel 4, cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and leader of Bradford Council, cllr Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council and cllr Ian Gillies, leader of City of York, said: “It is fantastic news that Leeds City Region is through to the next stage in the submission process for Channel 4’s new national headquarters outside of London.

“We will be continuing to make a strong and focused case for this once-in-a-generation opportunity.

“Bringing such an iconic brand to the City Region would provide mutual benefits, creating fantastic opportunities for our young diverse and digitally-savvy population, while providing Channel 4 the opportunity to access new talent and rebalance the creative sector in the UK.

“We would like to encourage everyone who lives and works in the City Region to get behind the campaign and show their support on social media using the hashtag #4Sparks.”