'BBC at Digbeth set to be bigger than Salford'

BOSSES COMMITTED TO GROWING CREATIVE INDUSTRIES IN BIRMINGHAM

- GURDIP THANDI

EXCITED bosses believe a new BBC agreement will make Digbeth will be 'bigger, better and bolder' than Salford's Media City.

The broadcaster signed a memorandum of understanding with the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and Create Central that will see network television production spend by the BBC in the region up from £24 million to £40 million by the end of 2027.

As part of the deal, which also sees the WMCA commit £5 million per year to the creative industries sector, the BBC will set up a production base in Digbeth.

This follows it’s move to the Tea Factory in Digbeth and the relocation of major shows such as Silent Witness and MasterChef in recent years.

West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker said the deal will help the area rival the BBC’s Media City hub in Salford.

BBC Director General Tim Davie said he wants to continue to grow the organisation's presence in the West Midlands.

Mr Parker said: "Digbeth is going to be bigger, better and bolder than Media City in Salford.