Disappointment For Hull As It Misses Out On Channel 4 HQ Bid

Hull has missed out on becoming the new home of Channel 4.

The city had put together an ambitious bid for the broadcaster’s new national HQ, or one of its two creative hubs.

After more than 30 submissions, Channel 4 has revealed that Bristol, Cardiff, Glasgow, Greater Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool and West Midlands have been shortlisted for the national headquarters or creative hub. Six other cities or regions – Belfast, Brighton, Newcastle-Gateshead, Nottingham, Sheffield, Stoke-on-Trent – have been shortlisted for the creative hub.

Hull City Council deputy leader Councillor Daren Hale said:

“We are disappointed to have missed out on reaching the next stage of Channel 4’s shortlisting process after putting together an ambitious bid but ultimately, you will never win the lottery if you never buy a ticket and like with the 2017 City of Culture, dreaming big and bold will lead to many successful and the odd near miss.

“But Hull is a city that will never stop striving to attract major investment. The city recently announced funding for a £27.5 million major maritime project, while our digital and tech industry has grown by 15 per cent since 2014, employing more than 4,000 people and turning over £568 million last year.

“Hull City Council will continue to seek further creative and cultural investment in the city.”

Mark Jones, Director of Regeneration, said:

“Whilst we have been unsuccessful this time, no one should be in any doubt about the sheer ambition of this city. From a city of culture year that exceeded all expectations to attracting global companies like Siemens, we have proven what can be achieved when businesses, the council and residents work together for the benefit of Hull.

“Today, we pass on our congratulations to the shortlisted cities and we continue our collective efforts to make Hull a place to live, learn, work, study and invest.”