Media studio ‘vital’ for region’s TV and film industry

A NEW media studio which is set to open in Leeds in the spring has been heralded as vital to helping support the region’s burgeoning television and film industry.

The new 130,000 sq ft facility is due to be launched in May to bring five world class production stages for TV, feature film and commercial clients.

The facility, called Leeds Studios, is the latest major investment in the film and television sector which has become increasingly important to the national economy.

Leeds Council’s leader Judith

Blake said: “Bringing a state-ofthe-art studio to the city and now starting to see what will be brought to life ahead of the opening next year is hugely exciting.

“Not only is this development a real boost for the creative and TV sectors in Leeds, but the benefits will be seen for our local economy as we open new avenues for companies to come and work in the city whilst bringing in new jobs.”

Since 2008, film and television revenues have risen nationally by 40 per cent to £3bn last year. Yorkshire has itself seen widespread investment, including the announcement in October last year that Channel 4 would establish a new headquarters in Leeds.

The region has also become a sought-after destination for production crews, with movies and television series including ITV’s historical drama Victoria and the new Downton Abbey film being filmed in Yorkshire.