Plans to place a northern version of London's renowned Brit School in Bradford have been given the go-ahead.
The famous Brit School in Croydon, South London, originally opened its doors in 1991.
It helped launch the careers of international stars including Adele, Amy Winehouse, Jessie J and Katie Melua.
The school is supported by the British Phonographic Industry and graduates have collectively sold more than 250 million albums and won 15 Brit awards over the past 30 years.
The Brit School in South London. Image: Brit School
The government have said the new Bradford location will be backed by huge music industry companies such as Sony Music Entertainment UK, Universal Music UK and Warner Music UK.
The BPI plans were submitted in February and although no official opening date has been announced, they've said they hope it will be up and running by 2026.
The BPI said that the northern school will match the already vibrant and cultural scene in Bradford.
The Brit School North will be free to attend for 500 pupils aged 16 to 19, and will offer courses in music, theatre and dance.
Image: Wikimedia Commons
BPI chair YolanDa Brown said the new school will improve access to creative education and diminish the need for young people to move to London.
The Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, spoke about the news: "This is a fantastic win for the North and supports our ambition to ensure opportunities for all, no matter where you're from or where you live. The build up to Bradford UK City of Culture 2025 has already started to inspire the next generation of artists.
"And now, with West Yorkshire becoming the home of Brit School North, more young people can follow in the footsteps of our world-class homegrown artists, from the likes of Mel B and Corinne Bailey Rae to the Kaiser Chiefs."
Bradford-born One Direction star Zayn Malik has expressed his support for the new school.
"After years of late nights, strong cocktails, and incredible stories; The Maven will close its doors"
It's a sad day for the Leeds night life scene, as a beloved speakeasy bar has today announced that it will be closing its doors for good.
The Maven has been a firm favourite for many years with those looking to enjoy some experimental and expertly made cocktails.
Hidden behind an unassuming door at the top of Call Lane, it was a great spot to visit if you were looking for something that little bit special.
Announcing the news to their social media, The Maven said: "From the bottom of our hearts we thank you for being our guests over the years and promise that until then, we'll do our best to give you the best nights out on Call Lane."
Conan Gray AND Jacob Alon join Lewis Capaldi’s Roundhay Festival line-up
Thomas Melia
US pop star Conan Gray and BRIT award winner Jacob Alon join the line-up for Lewis Capaldi's headline date at Roundhay Festival.
Leeds' Roundhay Park is welcoming back live music to its grounds this summer for two outdoor gigs headlined by Lewis Capaldi and Pitbull titled Roundhay Festival, with special guests slowly being announced.
Gray is recognised for standout tracks like 'Heather' and 'Maniac' while Alon has built a cult following of fans around their indie tunes like 'Fairy in a Bottle' as well as 'Liquid Gold 25'.
Jacob Alon has been showing off their artistry within the indie music scene thanks to their 2025 LP In Limerence catching the attention of many in the process.
This album has gone onto attract widespread love from music listeners and even industry professionals bagging themselves their first-ever BRIT award nomination and win - The Critics' Choice award.
Conan Gray AND Jacob Alon join Lewis Capaldi's Roundhay Festival line-up / Credit: Supplied via Press Shots
Conan Gray started out covering other artists hits before creating some of his own and releasing debut studio album Kid Krow back in 2020.
The project has production credits shared between Gray and Dan Nigro, Grammy-winning producer who has worked with Chappell Roan, Olivia Rodrigo, Lorde and more.
It's always exciting hearing updates like these, but this one is even more impressive as it's not just one stellar act joining the Roundhay Festival line-up but two, with further acts to be announced.
The almost 70,000 crowd who are heading down to Roundhay Festival when Lewis Capaldi makes his way to Leeds next summer are going to be blessed with some phenomenal live music.Â
This year marks American Express Presents Roundhay Festival first year with two star-studded dates fronted by powerhouse performers with the second show fronted by Pitbull and special guest Kesha.
These events have been organised with Leeds City Council and are expected to bring benefits to the local area by employing local suppliers, staff and boost spending on accommodation, food and entertainment.
Conan Gray and Jacob Alon will play alongside Lewis Capaldi at Roundhay Festival in Leeds on Saturday 4 July 2026 with tickets available HERE.
Clementine Hall -
21st August 2023 
