Disney to make new production near Reading
The US entertainment company is the first client of Shinfield studios
Shinfield Studios has confirmed their first client will be Disney.
The studios, just south oF Reading, have also received full planning permission from Wokingham Borough Council to begin construction on a state-of-the-art studio facility, which will comprise 18 sound stages. Although initial approval was given the decision was sent to be ratified by the Government.
The 85,000 square meter media hub will be located in Shinfield in Berkshire within the Thames Valley Science Park, becoming one of the largest film and TV studios in the UK. It'll include four sound stages which have already been completed. ,
They are now ready for operation, with a Disney production confirmed to start in 2022. Once complete Shinfield Studios expects to generate total inward investment to the UK economy of approximately £600 million each year.
Alongside 18 sound stages, Shinfield Studios will include workshops, a contemporary office environment and a post-production /screening facility; all designed to service the largest film and television productions. In addition, facilities will be completed for the use of related service businesses including lighting, camera and props.
Nick Smith, Joint Managing Director, Shinfield Studios said:
“We are incredibly excited about the potential for Shinfield Studios, both as a significant contributor to the thriving UK film and TV industry and for its already proven ability to attract the world’s foremost story tellers and producers. Our goal has been to move rapidly to support our clients who need to secure space from next year. Completing the first four sound stages already has enabled us to get up and running quickly and deliver a state-of-the-art studio space to meet Disney’s needs.”
Ian Johnson, Joint Managing Director, Shinfield Studios added:
“It’s well documented that there is an ever-growing demand for studio space in the UK and we’re thrilled to be able to take advantage of this and create a world class home for the film and TV community within Berkshire. Wokingham Borough Council and the community of Shinfield have been incredibly supportive of this vision and we look forward to contributing to the employment and cultural opportunities in the local area.”
Now that full planning consent has been granted construction will begin immediately. Alongside the four sound stages already constructed, a further nine are due to open in 2023, with completion of the entire 18 stage facility by the end of 2024.
A few miles east Bray studios near maidenhead is said to be one of the UK production bases for the second season of the Amazon Prime series 'The Lord of the Rings'.