Warner Bros Discovery has announced it intends to expand Leavesden Studios by a further ten sound stages by 2027.
Warner Bros Studios Leavesden’s production capacity will grow by 50 per cent as part of the project, with work due to begin in the second quarter of 2024.
The expanded WBSL will become a primary production hub for DC Studios, said the company.
The expansion will boost the total stage count from 19 to 29 and the overall production space from 1.14 million sq. ft to 1.78 million sq ft, added WBD.
Recent film and television shows shot on WBSL soundstages include Barbie, House of the Dragon; and the upcoming film Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.
DC Studios Co-Chairmen and CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran will consult with the expansion team to ensure that their ideas are incorporated into the new studio and production facilities.
It is anticipated that the expansion will drive the creation of another 4,000 new direct and indirect jobs across the UK and grow WBSL’s contribution to the UK economy by more than £200 million, raising the total value of film and television production at WBSL to an excess of £600 million annually, said the company.
The expansion plan has been developed in close consultation with Three Rivers District Council and Watford Borough Council with careful consideration given to prioritising sustainability, added WBD.
Leavesden will also include an on-site training centre to support existing crew, create career pathways for people of all backgrounds and “foster the next generation of talent using the wealth of industry expertise on site”.
Simon Robinson, chief operating officer of Warner Bros. Discovery Studios, said: “Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden is globally recognised for its exceptional soundstages and facilities, and with this planned expansion adding significant capacity and capabilities, it will be home to even more incredible storytelling for both film and television projects. We are proud to not only be growing our productions in Leavesden and making it the main hub for DC Studios, but also to be growing our economic and community contributions to the UK’s creative sector.”
