Sky invests £3bn in production at new Elstree studio

Sky Studios has announced it will invest in the UK creative sector with the development of a new TV and film studio creating over 2,000 new jobs.

The proposed development represents a significant new investment in the UK and European creative economy and will be made with the backing of Sky’s new owner Comcast and in partnership with sister-company NBCUniversal.

Subject to planning consent the 32-acre development is expected to open in 2022 and will be able to facilitate the production of several films and TV shows simultaneously, with each of the 14 sound stages covering over 20,000 sqft.

Once completed, the site will include production offices, a set construction workshop, a screening cinema and state-of-the-art post-production and digital facilities.

In a statement to the press, Sky said the new studio space will host the production of major films from Universal Pictures, Focus Features and Working Title as well as television series from NBCUniversal Content Studios and have the capacity to host productions form third party producers.

Sky Group chief executive Jeremy Darroch said: “Sky Studios Elstree will play a pivotal role in bringing the wealth of UK and European talent and creativity to the world. We know our customers love our award-winning Sky Originals like Chernobyl and our investment in Sky Studios Elstree will enable us to bring more unique stories to more viewers.

“We are proud to be working with our colleagues at NBCUniversal and Comcast, and our partners Hertsmere Borough Council and L&G to bring this project to life.

“Together we share a joint vision to create a world-leading production capability that will support the creation of thousands of jobs in the creative sector. We can’t wait to get started.”

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Sky announced it is committed to supporting the next generation of young and diverse creative talent and will use Sky Studios Elstree to build on its existing work.

Sky Studios Elstree will be situated in the borough of Hertsmere.

Legal & General are in the process of finalising a detailed design of the scheme and expect to submit a formal planning application early next year.

Sky Studios Elstree will work in close collaboration with Elstree Studios despite both businesses being managed independently of each other.

Elstree Studios managing director Roger Morris said: “Sky Studios Elstree will be of immense importance to the UK Film and Television industry – it will not only boost the local economy of Hertsmere and Hertfordshire but will also have a major impact on the UK’s creative sector as a whole. We are extremely proud that Sky Studios Elstree has chosen to locate near us and we look forward to working closely with them.”

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