Buckinghamshire Council’s Strategic Sites Planning Committee has resolved to grant planning permission for the expansion of the world-renowned Pinewood Studios site in Buckinghamshire, England.
The proposed development for new studio space includes sound stages, a skills and training hub to be operated by the National Film and Television School, a business growth hub and a major film inspired visitor attraction. In addition, there are plans to extensively enhance the ecology and biodiversity of the area around the development and bring further considerable benefits to the community of Buckinghamshire.
This decision will allow the progression of Pinewood Group’s £500 million investment to create a global screen growth hub – Screen Hub UK. The development will expand the existing world-class facility, increasing capacity for film production in the UK as well as offering an international visitor attraction. It is expected that the development project will result in a £355 million boost to the UK economy and create over 3,500 jobs if given final approval.
In response to the Committee decision, Paul Golding, Chairman of Pinewood Group, said: “We are delighted by this outcome. The decision allows us to continue our ongoing investment in the Studios and support for the UK film and television industries. Importantly, we now have the opportunity of creating a world class training centre and film inspired visitor attraction, bringing considerable benefits to the community of Buckinghamshire and the UK economy.”