Tanglewood Games calls for more support to develop game hubs in the North and across the UK

Update, September 17, 2025: Game Republic has supported Tanglewood Games’ call for more support to develop game hubs and improved pathways in the north of England.

In a press release sent to GamesIndustry.biz, the games industry body said it “wholeheartedly backs GR member Tanglewood Games’ views on supporting the games industry, including in Hartlepool and the North East.”

“We are fortunate in The North to have Game Republic and many regional meet-ups and hubs that work together and collaborate,” said Jamie Sefton, managing director of Game Republic.

“We continue to work with networks in regions across the UK too, as we know that the majority of games are created and produced outside of London and the South East – and we believe passionately in devolved funding and support for regional games hubs.

“We agree very much with CEO and founder of Tanglewood, Chris Wood’s sentiments, which is why we are leading initiatives to better address those gaps. We look forward to working with Tanglewood Games to progress the work, which must be led by Northern companies and networks.”

Chris Wood added: “As a proud Northern business here in Hartlepool, we’re thrilled to be working with Jamie, Game Republic, One Creative North, and their amazing plans to help disadvantaged people into the games industry and increase access to funding for the North.”

Original story, September 16, 2025: Tanglewood Games is calling for greater government support to strengthen and expand game development hubs in the UK.

Last week, Tanglewood — an Unreal Engine consultancy and development studio — partnered with Into Games for a Waypoint summit to explore social mobility for games businesses in the North East, and also met with Ukie and MP for Hartlepool, Jonathan Brash, to discuss how areas like Hartlepool can be developed into hubs.

“Video game hubs across the UK are a vital part of local economies, providing jobs and globally recognised innovation,” Tanglewood states in a press release. “Yet, access to the industry is hindered by a lack of investment and skills challenges often made worse by socio-economic inequality.”

“I come from a working-class background, and I know talent in the UK isn’t limited just to the big cities,” said Chris Wood, CEO of Tanglewood Games. “I and Tanglewood Games are calling for clear pathways into the industry from schools and universities. Funding, including mentorships, bursaries and infrastructure, and collaboration with government and regional authorities to invest in local talent.

“We want to make sure everyone, no matter their background, feels like they have a route into the industry, and are supported when they get there.”

Ukie said it is actively working with the Government’s Social Mobility Commission to explore how the games industry “can help break down these socio-economic barriers” for British developers and their businesses, whilst Jonathan Brash said: “My role as MP is to back [Tanglewood Games’] work with sustainable investment across a range of areas that will be crucial in developing this growing industry.”

Earlier today, we reported that trade body TIGA is calling for stronger tax credits to support the UK games industry.