Head of Film4 Tessa Ross has announced that each year Channel 4 will be investing “an additional £1m specifically in the development of new British comedy films under the Film4 banner”.

The new slate will be commissioned by Shane Allen, Channel 4′;s Head of Comedy and executive producer behind The Inbetweeners TV series and film.

According to C4, Allen”s £1 million development budget will be in addition to Film4′;s existing £15m investment in film development and finance. Commenting on the news, Allen, said: “This is a fantastic adrenaline shot for British film comedy following on from the overwhelming audience appetite we experienced last summer.”

The announcement was made at Film4′;s annual pre-Cannes industry party in London:  “We’;re thrilled to be working with Shane on developing comedy features – with his impeccable track record and huge wealth of experience we know we are in for some seriously entertaining films.”

Overseeing the growth of The Inbetweeners from cult E4 series to box office hit, Allen has been responsible for comedy hits including Facejacker, Friday Night Dinner and Black Mirror. He puts some of his success down to the buoyancy of the live comedy circuit: “The recent explosion in live comedy is because it’;s a very communal experience, so with the huge expertise of Film4 it’;s a brilliant opportunity to tap the cinematic potential of UK writing and performing talent.”

Note: Channel 4 is this week celebrating an impressive three wins at the Rose d’;Or Festival. Winners were Friday Night Dinner (Best Sitcom), Million Pound Drop Live (Best Gameshow) and Black Mirror (Best Comedy).
 

How significant will this investment be? Why not discuss at the Knowledge’;s Linkedin group?