Tanglewood Games advocates for increased assistance to establish game development hubs in the North and throughout the UK

Update, September 17, 2025: Support from Game Republic has been extended to Tanglewood Games in their quest for increased backing to develop game industry hubs in Northern England.

In a press release shared with GamesIndustry.biz, the organization expressed its full support for Tanglewood Games’ vision to promote the games sector, particularly in Hartlepool and across the North East.

"We are privileged in The North to have Game Republic along with numerous regional gatherings and hubs collaborating," remarked Jamie Sefton, Game Republic’s managing director.

"Our efforts are aimed at working with networks across the UK, recognizing that much of the game development happens outside of London and the South East. We strongly advocate for decentralized funding to bolster these regional hubs.

These align with the aspirations of Tanglewood’s CEO, Chris Wood, which is the foundation of our initiatives to bridge existing gaps in the sector. We are eager to collaborate with Tanglewood Games in these efforts, emphasizing leadership by Northern firms and networks," Sefton added.

Chris Wood commented, "As a proud Northern enterprise based in Hartlepool, we are excited to join forces with Jamie, Game Republic, and One Creative North to enhance opportunities in the industry for underprivileged individuals and ensure greater funding availability for the North."

Original story, September 16, 2025: Tanglewood Games is advocating for enhanced government assistance to bolster and expand gaming development hubs across the UK.

Recently, Tanglewood collaborated with Into Games for a Waypoint summit aimed at discussing social mobility among gaming enterprises in the North East. Meetings were also held with the industry body Ukie and Hartlepool MP Jonathan Brash to explore the development of Hartlepool area hubs.

According to Tanglewood's press release, "Game hubs are essential components of local economies throughout the UK, offering employment opportunities and promoting globally recognized innovations, though access remains restricted due to insufficient investment and skill shortages exacerbated by socio-economic disparities."

Chris Wood, CEO of Tanglewood Games, noted, "Coming from a working-class background, I recognize that talent in the UK extends beyond major metropolitan areas. We at Tanglewood are advocating for more defined pathways from educational institutions into the sector. This includes funding support, mentorships, and collaboration with governmental and regional bodies to nurture local talent.

"Our goal is to ensure equal opportunities for everyone to enter and succeed in the industry, regardless of their background."

Ukie is collaborating with the Government’s Social Mobility Commission to address socio-economic obstacles faced by British game developers, while MP Jonathan Brash emphasized his commitment to supporting Tanglewood Games' initiatives through sustainable investments crucial to this sector's growth.

Earlier, it was reported that TIGA is advocating for more robust tax incentives to aid the UK gaming industry.

Additional reporting by Vic Hood.