Warner Bros Studio Leavesden expansion to create 4,000 jobs

The Hertfordshire studios are responsible for the Harry Potter Franchise

Author: Ellie CloutePublished 22nd Sep 2023
Last updated 22nd Sep 2023

A Hertfordshire studios, which is behind the Harry Potter film franchise and the Barbie movie is set to undergo a huge expansion, creating 4,000 jobs.

Warner Bros Studios Leavesden (WBSL) will be expanding their Watford studios, with plans for an additional 37,000 square metres of of production and support space.

An extra 10 new sound stages are also planned for the expansion.

It is due to begin work for the expansion next year, with the expectations to be completed in 2027.

The production hub's extended capacity will also see the space now used as a primary hub for DC Studios.

The fan tour of the Harry Potter Studios is among attractions at the Hertfordshire site, most recent productions at the sound stages include HBO series House of the Dragon.

Hogwarts Express at platform 9 3/4 in Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour,

Chancellor hails expansion "huge vote of confidence in the UK"

Jeremy Hunt said: "The enormous strength of our creative industries sees films and television shows made in the UK reaching cinemas and front rooms across the world, including Barbie and the House of the Dragon series.

"Warner Bros. Discovery's ambitious plan to grow its Leavesden studio is a huge vote of confidence in the UK - creating thousands of jobs and growing our economy - and means that British-made entertainment will continue to delight and entertain global audiences."

Simon Robinson, chief operating officer of Warner Bros Discovery Studios, said: "Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden is globally-recognized for its exceptional sound stages and facilities, and with this planned expansion adding significant capacity and capabilities, it will be home to even more incredible storytelling for both film and television projects.

"We are proud to not only be growing our productions in Leavesden and making it the main hub for DC Studios, but also to be growing our economic and community contributions to the UK's creative sector."

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