Image: New ACE chair Sir Peter Bazalgette

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has announced Sir Peter Bazalgette is to replace Dame Liz Forgan as the new chair of Arts Council England (ACE).

Sir Peter's appointment for a four-year term is effective from 1 February 2013 and was one of the last acts to be performed by Jeremy Hunt in his now former role as culture secretary.

Earlier this year, it was announced that Dame Liz Forgan - who will remain as chair until 31 January 2013 - would not be reappointed, having been selected for the post in late 2008.

A former creative director at television production group Endemol until 2007, Sir Peter is the current chair of English National Opera and serves on the advisory board of The Space.

During the past 20 years he has built a reputation as one of the most 'powerful' people in broadcasting due to his development of both reality television and his role in promoting lifestyle TV programmes.

During his time at Endemol, Bazalgette was credited with popularising the format of reality show Big Brother not just in the UK but around the world.

ACE chief executive Alan Davey has welcomed the appointment of Sir Peter. He said: "This is an excellent appointment. Peter is a great philanthropic contributor to the arts.

"At the same time I would also like to pay tribute to Liz Forgan - who has done such a marvellous job for us during a time of rapid change.

"I know she will continue to play an active role until she leaves in January and I thank her sincerely for her all hard work and inspired leadership."

Sir Peter said: "Sustaining our vigorous arts and cultural sector is admittedly a challenge but one I greatly look forward to."

Click here for more information about the appointment of Sir Peter Bazalgette as ACE chair and click here for Alan Davey's response.

Image: Rachel Goodwin