Sir Mark Walport visits Cardiff University

Sir Mark Walport has visited Cardiff University to find out more about its work to boost the screen industries in South Wales.

The Chief Executive of the newly formed UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), was given a tour of the new home for the School of Journalism, Media and Culture at Two Central Square, before finding out more about Clwstwr Creadigol.

Earlier this year, the University led on a successful bid to the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). The Creative Industries Clusters Programme, which is part of the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy, brings together world-class research talent from leading UK universities with companies and organisations from across the creative sector.

Working in partnership with the University of South Wales and Cardiff Metropolitan University, as well as the Welsh Government, Cardiff Council, all major Welsh broadcasters and more than 60 screen industry businesses, Clwstwr Creadigol is one of nine projects in the UK to be chosen for the five-year funding stream.

As part of his visit, Sir Mark was given an introduction to Clwstwr Creadigol by director Professor Justin Lewis, as well as hearing from university partners and industry figures. He also visited the new headquarters of BBC Wales, situated next door to the School.

Sir Mark Walport, who was in Cardiff to launch the UKRI in Wales, said: “The breadth and depth of research and innovation in Wales plays a major role in fuelling the success of the UK on the world stage, and the Creative Cluster at Cardiff University is a great example.

“In bringing together world-class research talent from leading universities with companies and organisations from across the creative sector, it will ensure thriving screen industries in this region reach their full potential.”

Professor Justin Lewis said: “We're delighted to be able to showcase the work Clwstwr Creadigol is doing to place innovation at the core of the screen sector in South Wales to Sir Mark Walport, head of UKRI.

“Since being awarded a Creative Industries Cluster by AHRC in September, we’ve been laying the ground work for Clwstwr Creadigol with a view to opening the first R&D programme for industry applications in March 2019.

With a focus on screen industries – film and television production and their supply chains – academics from Cardiff’s three universities will collaborate to provide research that can help the already thriving scene in South Wales reach its full potential.

Journalism students moved in to the state-of-the-art new building at Central Square, which has improved technology and links with the Welsh media, in September.