Dame Judi Dench joins Archers Birmingham campaign
More than 100 current and former cast and crew members of *The Archers*, including Dame Judi Dench, have urged the BBC to keep the programme’s recording in Birmingham. They say the city is central to the drama’s identity and that moving production elsewhere could affect how it is made and its future.
The appeal follows the BBC’s decision to shelve a dedicated studio at its new Digbeth headquarters as part of cost-saving measures. The programme, set in the fictional West Midlands village of Ambridge, has been recorded in Birmingham throughout its 75-year history. Director general Matt Brittin said the BBC remains committed to the show and is exploring recording options, including studio space elsewhere and alternatives in the West Midlands.
- More than 100 Archers staff and performers want recording to stay in Birmingham.
- The BBC shelved plans for a dedicated Digbeth studio to save money.
- The programme has been recorded in Birmingham throughout its 75-year history.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Keeping The Archers’ recording in Birmingham would honour a long-standing link between the programme and the region it depicts. Supporters argue that local production helps sustain the show’s distinctive identity and creative community, and that moving could gradually weaken those ties.
The case against
The BBC has to manage costs and make practical use of its facilities while keeping the programme on air. If another studio or recording arrangement can preserve the show’s quality and regional character at lower cost, supporters of that approach could argue that a dedicated Birmingham studio is not essential.