Channel 4 launches permanent Leeds newsroom
Channel 4 News has launched a permanent newsroom in Leeds, with the daily bulletin set to be delivered from two national newsrooms.
The studio has begun broadcasting, featuring insight and analysis from Channel 4 News’ new data correspondent Ciaran Jenkins, anchored by long-standing presenter Jackie Long.
Channel 4 News has been operating in Leeds since early 2022, with daily programming from its temporary studio.
But this latest venture will significantly increase its presence in the region, driven by a growing newsroom team and a second digital unit to support the programme’s data-driven output.
It will become the first national evening news programme to co-present from two locations.
Channel 4 has also revealed a collaboration with University of Leeds, donating high-performance equipment and technology from its temporary studio to the university’s School of Media and Communication.
Esme Wren, editor of Channel 4 News, said: “We’re pleased to finally be bringing the new studio to life as we significantly expand our presence across the UK.
“With two national newsrooms to deliver the daily bulletin, this venture is a visible investment in the region, marking our clear commitment to storytelling from across the country, alongside giving us a new home for our data-driven journalism.”
Kristyn Gorton, head of the School of Media and Communication, University of Leeds, said: “We are very grateful for C4 News’ kind donation, and would like to thank head of regions, Sunita Bhatti, and the rest of the C4 News team in Leeds for the opportunity to utilise such a well-recognised TV set.
“It will be put to good use by students and staff within The School of Media and Communication and I know they’re already looking forward to using it on the BA Journalism news days.”
Louisa Compton, head of news & current affairs & specialist, said: “The launch of the permanent studio officially makes Channel 4 News the first prime news programme to co-present from two locations – demonstrating Channel 4’s commitment to Nations and Regions and representing the whole of the UK.
“It will bring more authentic regional voices to our news coverage, deliver more opportunities to people in the region and help ensure we continue to provide the best news coverage for our audiences.”
Rachel Corp, CEO of ITN, added: “Our Channel 4 News’ Leeds studio puts state-of-the-art digital technology and connectivity at the heart of the award-winning coverage for which we are known.
“ITN’s newsrooms are committed to reflecting the experience of people across the UK and our investment in Channel 4 News’ Leeds operation and the content teams based there will significantly deepen our roots in communities across the north of England and enrich our coverage for viewers right across the nation.”
