Brit Awards 2011 date, venue confirmed

The Brit Awards 2011 will take place on February 15 at London's O2 arena, it has been confirmed.

It was previously confirmed that the music ceremony would move from the Earls Court Exhibition Centre, where it has been held since 1998.

A statement said that the move would mark the "new start of an era for the UK's most prestigious music event".

Speaking about the new venue, Brit Awards Chairman David Joseph said: "Looking at what the Brits stands for - the 'must see' spectacle and the unique performances which stretch every artist who performs - it was clear that moving to a state-of-the-art venue like The O2 was an obvious evolution."

It was also confirmed that a new three-year deal has been struck with ITV, to broadcast the ceremony.

"We have an excellent, long-standing relationship with The Brits and are delighted to be the official broadcaster for the UK's biggest music awards ceremony over the next three years," ITV director of entertainment and comedy Elaine Bedell said.

"Our viewers love the anticipation of what a live music show can bring as some of the world's biggest performers take to the stage," she added.