Sunderland’s creative economy is set for a major boost, as plans for the highly anticipated Crown Works Studios gather pace.
Construction of the landmark 125,000 sq. ft complex in Pallion could begin as early as July, creating a super-sized space for film, TV, live events, and gameshows.
Having seen a 130% rise in screen production in the North East over the last three years, it is hoped the studios will serve as a catalyst for businesses supporting the wider creative industry, including animators, set designers and make-up artists.
On the opposite side of the River Wear, the news that construction is set to begin over the coming months has been welcomed by the North East BIC, which already houses a growing community of digital, media and creative businesses.
One such business 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 Crown Works Studios 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 is looking forward to the opportunities the Crown Works Studios development will bring.
He 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, working across factual broadcast, and commercial video; 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 and recently set up office space at the BIC.
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.
“For too long, the region has lacked the large-scale production infrastructure needed to compete, and the new studios will change all that.
“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.
“Just as importantly, it strengthens the pipeline for local talent – creating jobs, building skills, and offering a clear route into the industry without the need for people having to leave the area.
“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 – also based at the BIC – 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. We are lucky to be based in the BIC, just a stone’s through from the Crown Works Studios, meaning we can be on site within minutes. 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.
“We are fortunate to already have a strong creative community at the BIC comprising production companies, podcasters, and event specialists and as Crown Works continues to rise from the ground, I’m sure they will be keeping a close eye on the bountiful opportunities it will present. It is yet another incredibly exciting development for the city.”
