Expansion plans have been revealed for Manchester’s Space Studios, which will involve the development of two new 20,000 square foot stages at their West Gorton site.
The film and TV facility has announced the exciting plans today, which would see it grow its footprint to cover 105,000 square feet of stage space – and with the opening of supporting accommodation, would grow Space Studios to cover a total area of 17 acres.
Recent successes for Space Studios have included hit drama Devs, which was broadcast on the BBC and FX on Hulu. It has also hosted the filming of Peaky Blinders, and in association with Screen Manchester turned a corner of the Northern Quarter into New York for the upcoming Marvel film Morbius.
Initial design work for the new stages commences this year, with a date for planning approval expected in Summer 2021, before construction starts. The new facilities could, should all go to plan, therefore be open in Autumn 2022.
Colin Johnson, MD of Space Studios, says: “The UK tax break and the ever-growing need for content from streaming services has meant demand for studio space in the UK has been at an all-time high. Having the studios here in Manchester has meant we can capitalise on that demand and provide jobs and opportunities to local people and businesses.
“We are really excited to continue to build on that growth and really establish Space Studios as the home for High End TV Drama.”
Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council – who has been at the forefront of the creation of Space Studios – said: “Manchester has historically been viewed globally as a hub for creative activity and artistic and technical leadership.
“Nowhere is this more apparent than in the world of Film and TV Production. Manchester has proven just how much it has to offer to the people who make the entertainment we enjoy and so now we can look at expanding the Space Studios site. This in turn will offer opportunities for increased economic growth and importantly employment in the sector for the people of the Manchester City region and beyond.”
Since its launch in 2014, Space Studios has contributed to Manchester’s popularity as a destination for the creation of film and TV productions. It has created 270 jobs and contributed £19.5 million in GVA. Interest in the city means there are now around 700 filming days a year in Manchester, equating to an on-location spend of around £6.5 million.
