Sunderland's creative sector is poised for a significant leap forward as momentum builds behind the highly anticipated Crown Works Studios development.
Plans for the 125,000 sq ft production complex are progressing rapidly, with construction potentially beginning as early as July.
The development is expected to act as a catalyst for the wider creative economy, supporting a broad network of professionals, from animators and set designers to make-up artists and technical crews.
Across the River Wear, the news has been warmly received at the North East BIC, home to a thriving cluster of digital, media and creative enterprises.
Among them is Howell Media, which specialises in video production and live events. The company’s head of production, Issy Howell, said: “It’s really exciting to see something like this happening in Sunderland.
“Developments like this bring a real sense of momentum to the area and can have such a positive impact on the wider creative community.
“What feels especially important is the opportunity it could create for young people: helping them see there are genuine careers in film, production and content creation here in the North East, and that they don’t have to leave the region to build something creative and successful!”
Also based at the BIC is video production company Second Draft. Co-founder and director Glen Colledge said: “Crown Works Studios has the potential to be a real catalyst for the region, enabling a wider ecosystem of businesses, talent and facilities to grow around it.
“For independent production companies like ours, this brings significant indirect benefits – from access to a deeper pool of highly skilled freelance talent, to nearby rental houses that help us stay at the forefront of production technology.
“Being able to tap into this as needed will help support sustainable growth, while allowing us to remain agile and focused on delivering the highest standard of work across every project.”
Jonny Smith, founder of Bonny Lad Productions, has spent more than a decade working as a freelance producer and director. He said: “The progression of the Crown Works Studios is a hugely positive step – not just for Sunderland, but for the North East and the wider screen production industry.
“In my 13 years in the industry, this is the most significant development I’ve seen – one with the potential for real generational impact.
“For businesses like Bonny Lad, it’s transformative, creating new opportunities, attracting productions and helping keep work in the region.
“This is a defining moment for the North East and one that could reshape the sector for years to come.”
Graeme Stammers, owner of chauffeur company Wearside Executive Limited, is hoping the studios will attract big names looking for executive transport in and around the city.
Graeme said: “The studios will impact a lot of small businesses across the region as they require so many different moving parts. From executive vehicles, like we provide across the UK, to site security and of course staff.
“This will provide a boost in earnings helping these businesses not only to survive but to thrive. It’s exciting for everyone in our opinion and we can’t wait.”
Paul McEldon OBE, Chief Executive at the BIC, said: “The Crown Works Studios will provide opportunities for the city which, a decade ago, we could never have imagined.
“For our young people, it will mean that anyone who wants a job in the creative industries no longer has to leave for the likes of London, Leeds or Manchester and economically, it will provide a huge lift to businesses across the supply chain, from make-up artists to joiners and electricians. It is yet another incredibly exciting development for the city.”
www.ne-bic.co.uk