Decision Maker: Assistant Director Capital Investment and Growth - Jen Hartley

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: June 20, 2025

Purpose: To accept a grant from the North East Combined Authority contributing £250,000 towards the total cost of hosting the Mercury Prize in the city, marketing, City Dressing and Fringe programme throughout Newcastle and the wider North East in October 2025. To issue a Grant Funding Agreement to Generator North East Limited awarding a total of up to £100,000 taken from the contribution from the North East Combined Authority for the purpose of producing the Fringe programme throughout Newcastle and the wider North East in October 2025. To enter into a contract with Mercury Prize Limited giving exclusive hosting and sponsorship rights for the Mercury Prize in 2025.

Content: The recommendation is to give authority to the Assistant Director of Capital Investment and Growth to finalise the detail and enter into all agreements on behalf of the City Council in consultation with the Assistant Director Legal Services.