Sunderland’s Crown Works Film Studio Plans Move to Next Phase
A revised application for Studio One sets out three sound stages and 178,000 sq ft of production space on the banks of the Wear.
- The Mayor has backed the project with more than £38m.
- Studio One will include three sound stages and a backlot.
- Construction is expected to begin in autumn 2026, subject to planning.
A revised planning application has been submitted to Sunderland City Council setting out the final details of Studio One at Crown Works, the film and TV studio planned for the southern bank of the River Wear.
What will be built
Studio One will provide three sound stages, production accommodation, backlot space and parking, alongside the refurbishment of the historic WH Foster Printworks building. In total, the first phase will create 178,000 sq ft of TV and film production space.
Site preparation and clean-up work is complete, and construction is expected to begin in autumn 2026 if planning is approved.
Public backing
Mayor Kim McGuinness has backed the project with more than £38m. Once Studio One is complete, public sector investment in the area will total just over £60m. It is the first phase in transforming the 31-hectare site into an employment hub anchored by film and TV production.
Council leader Chris Eynon said he wanted plans to move ahead at pace.
