Bristol to become Channel 4 'Creative Hub'

Channel 4 has confirmed that Bristol will become one of its new Creative Hubs.

The broadcaster says its new Hubs will be responsible for commissioning content and programmes "from producers right across the UK".

Around 50 jobs will be transferred from Channel 4's London HQ to Bristol.

The decision to select Bristol follows an extensive pitch process with more than 30 pitches from cities and regions across the UK.

Channel 4 says that Bristol provides "the opportunity to build on a thriving television production sector in the City, which has world-renowned factual producers and also has strengths in areas such as animation and digital production".

"Locating in Bristol will also enable Channel 4 to work closely in partnership with Cardiff and its production sector – with the opportunity to further accelerate the growth of the creative cluster around South West England and South Wales – and also connect with indies across the West of England, Birmingham and the Midlands".

Channel 4 says Bristol put forward "exciting proposals to establish new social mobility initiatives to work with diverse communities across the city and bring through new talent into the industry".

Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees says the announcement is "fantastic news" and will help to build on the city's "thriving media industry and wealth of local talent".