Revised plans have been submitted to Sunderland City Council for the first phase of the Crown Works film studios development, marking a significant step forward in the North East’s creative industry ambitions. The project, located on a brownfield site on the banks of the River Wear, seeks to establish one of the largest film and television studio complexes in Northern England.
The initial phase, known as Studio One, is designed by FaulknerBrowns architects and features three sound stages, production support facilities, back lot space, a surface car park, and the refurbishment of the historic WH Foster Printworks building. Once complete, the phase will offer approximately 178,000 square feet of production space tailored for television and film projects. The site has already undergone extensive remediation and preparatory work to facilitate construction.
Originally, the Crown Works plan encompassed 19 sound stages, but the scope has been scaled down following the withdrawal of financing by Cain International. The project, initially driven by the production company Fulwell 73, now aims for a more incremental development approach to attract further private and public investment.
Local officials have expressed strong support for the revised plans, highlighting the potential economic and creative benefits for the region. North East Mayor Kim McGuinness emphasized the importance of the venture in providing local job opportunities in the screen industries, reducing the need for talent to relocate to London. McGuinness noted the council’s £38 million investment and described granting planning permission as a critical final step before construction can begin.
Sunderland City Council leader Councillor Chris Eynon said the updated plans represent a move from vision to reality, reflecting the city’s industrial heritage and creativity. He stressed the opportunity to accelerate regional ambitions in the creative sector through this development.
Industry representatives also welcomed the news. Alison Gwynn, chief executive of North East Screen, pointed to a recent four-year impact report showing strong growth in the region’s screen industries. Gwynn highlighted the role of the North East Production Fund in attracting productions and praised the region’s filming locations, crew, and talent for encouraging productions to extend their stays. She added that the new studio infrastructure would broaden the range of productions able to shoot locally and increase opportunities for local crews and suppliers.
Pending approval from Sunderland City Council, the Crown Works development is expected to serve as a catalyst for the continued expansion of the North East’s film and television sector, supporting a growing creative economy and providing a platform for large-scale projects including blockbuster films, live events, and gameshows.