Approval for the first phase of development at Crown Works Studios has been granted by Sunderland City Council’s Planning Authority, marking a significant step towards its delivery.
The decision allows plans for Studio One to proceed, providing 125,000 sq ft of film and TV production space. Three sound stages, production accommodation, backlot and parking areas will be developed, as well as the refurbishment of the historic WH Foster Printworks building.
Forming part of the Crown Works Growth Zone, the development is backed by more than £38 million from the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority. The plans aim to ensure Studio One meets the technical and operational requirements of film and high-end television (HETV) production, providing an efficient and flexible facility.
Councillor Chris Eynon, leader of Sunderland City Council, said, “This is a significant step forward for Crown Works and paves the way for construction of a development that will establish Sunderland and the North East as a major destination for film and high-end TV production. Studio One will create world-class infrastructure on the banks of the Wear, opening up opportunities for local people and businesses. This is an exciting development for Sunderland and one that will create jobs, attract investment and position our city and the region to capture a wide range of opportunities in this global industry.”
North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, added, “I promised to deliver Crown Works Studios, and this is another important milestone to opening the region’s first film and TV studios on the banks of the Wear. But we’re not just building the infrastructure. We’re backing the whole sector. Investing in skills, supporting creative businesses and attracting more productions to the region, to make sure that Crown Works delivers opportunities for working class creatives.”
