I’m thrilled that the National Headquarters of Channel 4 will be uprooting and moving up North to Leeds. Aiming to improve the way it reflects on life outside London, Channel 4 are ‘delighted to have made this decision’, expecting an initial forecast of over 1200 jobs being created as well as stimulating the city’s creative and digital industries by over £1 billion over the next decade. I am always glad to see the stimulation of our Northern economy.
Channel 4 were impressed by Leeds City Region’s comprehensive campaign and their passion to partner with Channel 4 to bring new, diverse talent into the programmes. Channel 4’s decision is a real testament to the work of the team, of which I was part of, and to the creative expertise and potential in the region. This is brilliant news for the wider area of West Yorkshire, devising new opportunities for neighbouring cities such as Sheffield, Bradford, Manchester and our own mighty Huddersfield among many more.
Huge congratulations to the teams in Leeds. I was proud to be a be part of the campaign supporting Leeds during its bid. I hugely look forward to observing the progress of the new, exciting partnership of Channel 4 and West Yorkshire.
Barry Sheerman 