The BBC’s Chief Content Officer has told a conference in Newcastle that it’s ahead of schedule on its Across the UK strategy.
The initiative was introduced to move “power and decision making” outside of London and to increase its programme spend in the nations and regions to 60% by the next Charter in 2027.
Speaking at the Creative Cities Convention Charlotte Moore and BBC Director Nations, Rhodri Talfan Davies, revealed that 2 years on, BBC Television has delivered 15% growth in commissioning spend out of the capital – reaching 57% in 2022.
It has also doubled the number of Network TV commissioners based out of London to more than 30
More than 100 scripted titles have been commissioned and it has invested in more than 30 training and development schemes across the UK.
“We have total confidence that we will meet and exceed our transformational commitments to make more programmes that reflect the people and places across the UK and move investment and decision making outside of London,” said Moore.
“What’s exciting is the stories we are telling, the talent we are nurturing and the places we are putting on screen from all over the UK really matters to audiences. This is more than just a numbers game, there has been real change and in just a few years’ time the majority of our video content will be made across the UK. Not only does this benefit the creative sector in all four Nations and support the independent production community outside of London, but it helps strengthen our relationship with audiences.”
The BBC said that by 2027/28 it will be spending “at the very least” an extra £700m cumulatively across the UK – generating an additional economic benefit of over £850 million.
“The BBC’s Across the UK plan is already a game-changer – rooting the BBC like never before across the country,” added Rhodri Talfan Davis.
“Behind the headlines of growth and investment are remarkable partnerships between the BBC, creative organisations in the independent sector and the regional screen agencies. Together, we’re supporting the development of world class talent and brilliant bold storytelling in every part of the UK.”
