The UK Cinema Association has warmly welcomed yesterday’s decision by Spelthorne Borough Council to grant outline planning permission for the improvement and expansion of the world-renowned Shepperton Studios site.
This decision potentially green-lights £500 million of investment to expand the world-class facility, increasing capacity for film and high-end television production in the UK. It is expected that the development project will result in a £300 million annual boost to the UK economy if given final approval. The application will now be referred to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government for his consideration.
The UK Cinema Association had written in support of the planning application, recognising the boost this would give to a facility which has in just the last year delivered to UK cinema audiences box office hits such as Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! and Mary Poppins Returns.
If approved, the plans would see the development of new studio space, which will include sound stages, offices, workshops, backlots, car parking and additional infrastructure.This would secure a number of job opportunities, including 1,500 construction jobs and a further 3,000 jobs at the Studios upon its completion.