The Creative Cities Convention (CCC) will return for its eighth annual gathering on 6–7 May 2026, bringing the UK’s leading event for film, TV and digital content creators to Liverpool.
As the only national conference dedicated to professionals working outside London, CCC consistently attracts hundreds of industry delegates and provides a platform for regional creativity, innovation and collaboration.
Each year, the convention travels to a different UK city to spotlight the strength and diversity of production across the nations and regions. Its 2026 move to Liverpool reinforces the North West’s reputation as one of the most dynamic centres for screen content, encompassing everything from world‑class television drama and documentary to gaming, immersive media and emerging digital technologies.
Lisa Owen, Head of Business Tourism for the Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership and Liverpool Convention Bureau, said:
“The Liverpool Convention Bureau is proud to have played a central role in bringing the Creative Cities Convention to Liverpool for 2026, because this event truly belongs in a city region where creative ambition and innovation run deep.
“We worked closely with partners to champion Liverpool City Region as the ideal host, not just for its world‑class production talent and rapidly expanding digital and immersive sectors, but for its ability to inspire bold thinking and fresh perspectives.
“Creative Cities Convention’s theme of ‘Where TV Meets Digital’ mirrors exactly what’s happening here every day, a powerful convergence of storytelling, technology and cultural energy, and we’re thrilled to welcome delegates to a city that continues to shape the future of the UK’s creative industries.”
This year’s event will take place at Camp and Furnace, one of Liverpool’s most iconic cultural venues. Located in the heart of the Baltic Triangle, it sits within a neighbourhood known for its independent studios, production spaces and digital‑first creative businesses. The venue’s blend of industrial character, performance space and community energy makes it an ideal backdrop for a conference centred on innovation.
The 2026 theme explores how traditional screen storytelling is evolving through new technology and changing audience behaviour. Across two packed days, delegates will hear discussions on:
- The role of AI and cutting‑edge production tools
- How digital platforms are reshaping storytelling
- Cross‑platform creative strategies merging TV, film, short‑form and immersive content
- The future of regional production in a converging media landscape
The programme includes keynote sessions, panel debates, industry briefings, screenings and networking events designed to foster partnership and spark new projects.
A strong roster of speakers is already confirmed for Liverpool 2026, including award‑winning filmmakers, senior executives, influential writers and leading commissioners. You can expect appearances from high‑profile directors, producers and industry leaders whose work spans globally recognised cinema, acclaimed British drama, major streaming platforms and fast‑growth digital media sectors.
Returning to host the convention is Mobeen Azhar, the BAFTA‑winning journalist and filmmaker known for his dynamic on‑stage presence and insightful conversations.
The event will open with a welcome address from Sir Phil Redmond CBE, whose career includes senior roles at the BBC and Channel 4.
While Liverpool is the host city, the convention will shine a wider spotlight on the creative excellence found throughout the North West. The region has become a powerhouse for TV and film production, gaming studios, immersive tech companies and digital creatives, all of which will play a role in the conversation about the future of UK media.
This year will also see the return of the Skills Summit, introduced last year to support talent development across the UK’s screen industries. The summit will focus on training, opportunities for new entrants, and building sustainable regional career pathways.
Embracing Liverpool’s identity as a UNESCO City of Music, the 2026 event will blend its industry programme with live music elements, creating a delegate experience that goes beyond traditional panel discussions and celebrates the city’s cultural heritage.
For more information, programme updates and tickets, click HERE.