The James Cameron-backed £750M ($987M) UK film studio has been given the go-ahead by the government.
The Housing, Communities, and Local Government department has just delivered a 266-page verdict after planning issues were raised, which said “the Secretary of State considers that despite the conflict with the development plan, the material considerations in this case indicate that permission should be granted.” The move was rubberstamped by housing secretary Steve Reed a few hours before the Labour Party delivers its highly-anticipated UK budget.
The studio in Buckinghamshire, South England, was initially denied planning permission on a controversial development, due in part to concerns from campaign groups about the local quarry area. The appeal ended up at the highest echelons of government.
The proposal includes 18 soundstages and a skills academy aiming to “harness AI and the digital revolution to revolutionise the art of storytelling.” Cameron has supported Marlow throughout and has floated it as a potential base and training center for Lightstorm3D, a company he set up to develop tools and tech for movies.
“The Secretary of State’s determination is a real vote of confidence in the UK and in its creative industries,” said Marlow CEO Robert Laycock. “It is very welcome news. This is a meaningful decision for anyone who believes in the UK’s future, our nation’s creative genius, and our unmatched capability to inspire the world.”
Marlow is the latest big development in the UK studio space. Pinewood recently set out plans to launch a dedicated production hub to support filmmakers taking advantage of the UK government’s new indie film relief, while a separate studio in the Isle of Wight, which is backed by Independent Talent Group founder Duncan Heath, has just been given the go-ahead. The £450M Fulwell Entertainment-backed Crown Works Studios, however, is in flux after its main investor pulled out.
