BBC Studios has secured the Blue Peter production contract until 2027.
- The tender process, beginning in February, concluded with the BBC awarding the contract to BBC Studios.
- This contract, valued at £2 million annually, ensures a minimum of 20 broadcast hours from Salford.
- Speculations about moving the production out of Media City were addressed, confirming its stay.
- Blue Peter, a 66-year-old children’s TV staple, remains a beloved and educational programme.
Following a competitive tender process initiated in February, BBC Studios emerged victorious in maintaining its role as the producer of the iconic children’s programme, Blue Peter. This outcome secures the programme’s production in Salford until at least 2027. BBC Studios’ success in this tender ends any speculation concerning possible relocation from Media City, Salford, as the contract distinctly dictates continued production there.
The contract, valued at approximately £2 million annually, sets the expectation for BBC Studios to produce a minimum of 20 hours of Blue Peter content each year. This financial commitment is indicative of the programme’s longstanding appeal and its essential role in children’s broadcasting over the years.
Prior to its contract with BBC Studios, Blue Peter was produced by BBC Children’s Productions, later transitioning to BBC Studios Kids & Family in 2022. The tender announcement took place alongside two other notable BBC tenders for Eurovision and the Sports Personality of the Year, with BBC Studios also retaining the Eurovision contract and Whisper North acquiring the latter.
Sarah Muller, the senior head of commissioning for BBC Children’s and Education, commented on Blue Peter’s enduring popularity, expressing that the programme remains a much-loved icon in children’s television. She highlighted its capacity to inspire children, who frequently engage by sending letters and artwork in pursuit of the famed Blue Peter badge.
The new contract ensures Blue Peter remains a steadfast presence in children’s programming, continuing its legacy of education and entertainment from Salford.
