Leeds shortlisted as Channel 4 HQ location
23 July 2018
Responding to Channel 4's announcement that Leeds has been shortlisted as a location for Channel 4's new national headquarters, Roger Marsh OBE, Chair of Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership, said today:
"Channel 4's decision to include us on its shortlist for its new national headquarters demonstrates the strength of the case we have made.
"This is an exciting step forward for our bid, Channel 4's analysis has shown we are a good choice and it is now up to us to show we are the right choice for the broadcaster. We will continue to work with all our partners to secure the tremendous prize on offer and we look forward to engaging further with Channel 4 in the weeks ahead.
"I believe firmly that Channel 4 and Leeds City Region share the same ambitions, to celebrate our diversity, nurture creative talent and pioneer new technologies, making us ideal partners."
In a joint statement, Cllr Judith Blake, Leader of Leeds City Council and Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, Chair of West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Leader of Bradford Council said: "It is fantastic news that the City Region is progressing to the next stage as we seek to be the home of Channel 4's new national headquarters. Together we have presented a strong case to Channel 4 and will continue to work hard in the weeks ahead to secure this once-in-a-generation opportunity.
"Hosting Channel 4's national headquarters would create fantastic opportunities, particularly for our young diverse and digital native population. In choosing our region, Channel 4 would gain access to new talent and voices, and help rebalance the creative sector in the UK.
"We would like to say thank you everyone who lives and works in the City Region who has already got behind the campaign and ask them to continue to show their support on social media using the hashtag #4Sparks."
Leeds is shortlisted alongside Birmingham, Greater Manchester to host the new Channel 4 HQ.
The channel has confirmed the cities and regions that have progressed to the next stage of negotiations to host its new base and two creative hubs.