A planned film studio development in Telford at a currently vacant 60,000sq ft warehouse in the Hortonwood area will aim to complement Shropshire’s growing appeal as a filming location.
Already named as First Central Studios, the project is being spearheaded by London based independent film production company AIB LIVE, who have engaged the services of renowned Lichfield based BHB Architects to oversee the work on the new studio.
The project to convert the property into a high-spec film and television studio is scheduled to start in late October, with the studio complex set to fully open by Spring 2025.
The facility is planned to contain 4 sound stages over 40,000sq ft, workshops, production offices, dressing rooms, make up rooms with all necessary support facilities.
A spokesperson for AIB LIVE said: “The British film and TV industry stands as one of this country’s great ongoing success stories and we are committed to build the creative sector in the West Midlands with First Central Studios and promote the stunning locations that are readily available in this region many of which have never been shown on the big screen.”
One of the key mandates for First Central Studios is to support young talent into the film industry through a creation of a film academy in collaboration with local educational institutions such as Telford College with a focus on accessibility and diversity.
A spokesperson from Invest Telford said: “We are delighted that AIB Live has chosen Telford as a destination to establish the first film and televison studio in the West Midlands. This investment reflects Telford’s potential as a prime location for the booming film industry and addresses the growing demand for sought-after film locations. In addition to the film studio, it creates educational and training opportunities for the borough’s emerging talent.”
Councillor Ollie Vickers (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, said: “Telford is quickly becoming a hub for creative industries, and the announcement of First Central Studios further strengthens our position on the map. This is a fantastic opportunity not just for our local economy but also for aspiring talent in the area. The partnership with local educational institutions, particularly Telford College, highlights our commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers and creative professionals, ensuring that our borough plays a vital role in the future of the UK’s booming film and television industry.”
Apart from hiring out the studios to other production companies, streamers and independent producers, AIB LIVE will also create and shoot its own productions from the studios with the first being “The Ghost Train” a comedy thriller directed by Award-winning Italian Director Frankie Caradonna, filming in January 2025 in conjunction with the UK’s top heritage train company Severn Valley Railway.
The official announcement of First Central Studios took place on Wednesday (25/09/2024) at The Astbury Golf Resort near Bridgnorth where the reception was attended by high profile guests including the Mayor of Telford, key members of Telford & Wrekin Council, Shropshire Council, Create Central, Telford College, senior film industry professionals, Directors of Severn Valley Railway to name just a few.
The event also gave platform to Shropshire based independent production company Rocking Horse Media who are currently promoting their new comedy drama titled ‘Henry House’ written and directed by Gareth Thomas and starring Orla Jones.
