Longcross Studios has received permission to proceed with a major upgrade.
Approval for plans for a “phased partial redevelopment” at the site, which straddles the administrative boundary between both Runnymede and Surrey Heath Borough Councils, was applied for and granted by both authorities.
Proposals to upgrade the Netflix-owned studios, which is also home to the BBC’s Call the Midwife, include new sound stages, ancillary workshops and permanent backlot facilities for outdoor filming.
Speaking at a meeting of the Runnymede Borough Council Planning Committee, assistant development manager Melissa Gale acknowledged many of the existing buildings at the 64-acre site, which was previously used to test tanks by the (former) Defence Evaluation Research Agency, are approaching end-of-life and unsuitable for Netflix’s needs.
The upgrade aims to enable an increase in production in the borough. Netflix has also agreed to make a contribution towards improving accessibility at nearby Longcross Railway Station. A council spokesperson said the development would provide a range of economic benefits both locally and for the wider UK TV and film industry.
Runnymede Independent Residents councillor Elaine Gill said: “It’s a positive step forward for Runnymede and eventually the unitary… It’s a good way forward.”
