In a move to decentralise the publishing industry, a new audiobook studio in Newcastle is set to rival traditional London hubs. This initiative by New Writing North and Hachette UK addresses the regional disparity in creative opportunities.
The studio, based in Newcastle’s city centre at Northumbria University, aims to boost local talent and infrastructure. With a longstanding university partnership, it provides a strategic location for aspiring audiobook professionals.
The audiobook studio is the result of a collaboration between New Writing North and Hachette UK, marking a significant milestone in regional creative development. Positioned at Northumbria University’s campus, the studio serves as a hub for the increased production of audiobooks, aiming to disrupt the concentrated publishing activities in London.
Lucie McNeil, audio development producer for New Writing North, highlighted the region’s abundance of talent, with many graduates poised to enter the audiobook industry. The studio’s presence is expected to catalyse local professional growth.
This initial endeavour not only sets a precedent for future projects but also establishes Newcastle as a new nerve centre for audiobook creation in the UK.
New Writing North’s joint educational efforts aim to bridge the gap between academic training and professional industry requirements, fostering a well-prepared creative workforce.
Carol Bell from Creative UK expressed satisfaction in supporting the venture, emphasising the importance of nurturing local talent and expanding skill sets through workshops and training programmes. The ongoing collaboration promises to yield substantial regional benefits.
Earlier this year, New Writing North sought governmental support to establish the Centre for Writing at Bolbec Hall, further exemplifying their commitment to regional literary expansion. Such initiatives aim to enhance the North East’s cultural and economic landscape.
The new audiobook studio exemplifies a transformative step for the North East’s creative economy. Its strategic operations and partnerships lay a foundation for sustainable growth in the publishing industry.
The launch of the Newcastle audiobook studio signifies a pivotal development in decentralising the UK’s publishing industry. By fostering local talent and enhancing infrastructure, this initiative is set to redefine the creative landscape in the North East.
