Decision details

4.1

The purpose of the report is to note the undertaking and seek approval for the submission of the Request for Information to the BBC as Phase 1 of the bidding process for Sheffield to be the host city for Eurovision Song Contest 2023 in collaboration with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and South Yorkshire local authorities in solidarity with Ukraine.

4.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Strategy and Resources Urgency Sub-Committee, having regard to the report and the financial implications, approves the Council submitting the Request for Information to the BBC as Phase 1 of the bidding process to become Host City of the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 on the basis of a collaborative bid with SYMCA and South Yorkshire local authorities.

4.3

Reason for Decision

Submitting a Host City bid at the first phase shows the city’s intent to be considered a major event hosting destination; there will be other bids submitted from destinations which can more easily meet the minimum criteria but perhaps cannot yet demonstrate the breadth of experience.

Sheffield offers - the speed at which SYMCA has agreed support demonstrates the belief that this event will have a major positive impact across the South Yorkshire region. It demonstrates the strength of the relationship by allowing Sheffield to be the accountable lead body.

Allows Sheffield to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine

Presents Sheffield on a global stage 

Major impact on visitor economy

4.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

If we do not bid, there would be an opportunity to create a smaller, localised ‘fringe’ style cultural event to show our solidarity with Ukraine and recognise our twinned city status with Donetsk. There would still be an opportunity of civic Sister City twinning with Khmelnytski in 2023. This ‘fringe’ event would not be formally affiliated with Eurovision and would bring no international exposure.

(Note: In accordance with Council Procedure Rule 26 this urgent meeting has been called on the recommendation of the Chair, on the basis that the Council must submit a Request for Information to the BBC as Phase 1 of the bidding process to become Host City of the Eurovision Song Contest 2023, by no later than 9 August 2022. It was not possible in the time available to give appropriate notice, and it was considered that the Council would not be able to submit the Request in time if not considered at this meeting).