Lenny Henry backs BBC initiative to increase programming input from Birmingham

Sir Lenny Henry is backing a BBC initiative to increase the Brummie input into the broadcaster’s programming following criticisms that it was under-serving the “Second City”.

BBC Director General Lord Hall has announced a Birmingham Writer in Residence scheme to work on Birmingham-produced shows The Archers and Home Front (Radio 4) and BBC1’s Doctors.

Sir Lenny is the patron of the project, which is also backed by the Birmingham Repertory Theatre. “We need to hear more Midlands voices on TV, radio and on stage,” said the comedian and actor.

The Digital Guerrillas, a separate BBC digital innovation unit also based in Birmingham, will look at the future of BBC3 as an online-only service and trial ideas on the BBC Taster website. It yesterday launched a project called Laid Bare, aimed at helping students avoid the pitfalls of social media.

Manchester, Cardiff and Glasgow have in recent years become the key locations outside London for the BBC, which once had its second hub at Birmingham’s Pebble Mill. Those studios closed in 2004.

The broadcaster will allow public access to a new Blue Room at its Mailbox headquarters in Birmingham, featuring an interactive exhibition of some of its latest digital products.