Liverpool Film Office says it will start taking enquiries for its new film and television studios from Easter.
The 2 x 20,000sq ft temporary studios have been named The Depot, taking inspiration from the site’s history as a former Merseyside Transport bus site.
It’s predicted that it will give a £24m economic boost to the regional economy, creating 360 new jobs and 760 indirect jobs.
“I think The Depot is a perfect name for these studios – as it’s a place where ideas will come to life and will make the magic we enjoy on the screen happen,” said Councillor Wendy Simon, Acting Mayor of Liverpool.
“As a well as being a nod to the site’s history, The Depot is also a signpost to the city’s future – one built on a creative and knowledge-based workforce.”
The topping out ceremony took place this week, with the studios seen as “critical” to Liverpool’s strategy to become one of Europe’s “premier film and television production hubs.”
“I’ve long said our region is the country’s creative capital and we’re investing to make sure it stays that way. We’ve approved investment of £17m to support the new shoot space, along with the Littlewood Film and TV studios and it’s fantastic to see the new production facilities topped out,” added Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region.
“The Liverpool City Region is already an obvious choice for what we can offer in front of the camera, with a wealth of creative talent and stunning backdrops. Now we can be a worldwide filming destination for what we offer behind the camera too, with world class facilities that mean productions can be shot, edited and finished without having to leave the region.”
The Liverpool Film Office has stated that it is already in talks with “major global productions” over use of the space.
The Depot will offer a temporary facility to capitalise on the current demand for studio space until the nearby Littlewoods studios scheme is complete.
It is expected that The Depot will be operational by Summer 2021.
