The Northern Studios has had approval for its expansion plans.
Hartlepool Borough Council has confirmed its approval for the £33.5 million programme, which will include the construction of larger studios and installation of new facilities at the site. The development will incorporate a Screen Industries Production Village, with nine disused buildings to be repurposed as pre and post-production spaces, workshops and creative hubs. Under the plans, the Grade-II listed Shades Hotel will be returned to use, in addition to several other heritage properties in what the council called a “transformative” project.
Alison Gwynn, chief executive of North East Screen, commented, “Securing planning approval for the Hartlepool Production Village and the expansion of Northern Studios marks a pivotal moment for the North East’s screen sector. This development will allow us to continue to develop a thriving ecosystem for local talent and businesses who are working across linear TV and digital formats, and see more TV and film production across Hartlepool and the wider Tees Valley. We have stunning and diverse locations, experienced talented crew based in the region, and a network of local authorities who will ensure productions happen seamlessly.”
Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee, added, “This is a game-changing moment for Hartlepool—not just for our creative industries, but for the town as a whole. The £33.5 million investment into expanding our film and television production facilities will create over 130 new jobs, attract further private sector investment, and deliver a lasting boost to our local economy. This development will help nurture local talent, support small businesses, and position Hartlepool as a serious player in the UK’s creative sector.”
Funding has been secured from the UK Government and Tees Valley Investment Zone, with the project being led by Hartlepool Borough Council, The Northern School of Art, Tees Valley Combined Authority and regional screen industries development agency, North East Screen.
