York fireworks could be broadcast live on Chinese TV

A £300,000 York firework display could be broadcast on Chinese state television.

The city of Changsha in China has offered to subsidise a display in York – and would put £200,000 towards the plans.

Cllr Nigel Ayre, speaking at a council meeting, said as part of the deal the event would be shown on Chinese television and that this could attract tourists and investors to the city.

He said:

• It’s a great opportunity, it’s something that will be nationally and internationally significant.

  It’s about showcasing the city as well as providing an event that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

  Changsha are looking for an outlet in terms of promoting their particular digital media arts, that they are renowned for.

  Part of that deal was the promise that it would be broadcast on the state broadcaster in China. People will be able to see York at its finest.
  

Could cost more or less

He said the plans came about because York is a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

And he added that the expense of the event could go up or down, but that the council will be expected to shoulder a third of the costs, possibly through taxpayers’ money or people paying to attend events.

A report says the display could take place at the Castle Gateway site, but it has not yet been confirmed if the show would be based at Clifford’s Tower or if it will take place on Bonfire Night.

The council will work with the team behind the Mediale festival to look at the proposals, but Cllr Ayre said Mediale will not be responsible for putting on the event.

At the meeting Cllr Ayre also approved plans for £20,000 of funding from the Leeds City Region Business Rates Pool to be put towards a five-day festival of the rivers, due to take place this summer.