A deal worth hundreds of millions of pounds to bring Hollywood to Shinfield and create 3,000 jobs has been made.
Shinfield Studios Limited secured a 199 year lease on Thames Valley Science Park, where they will build 18 purpose built stages for the film industry.
The company signed an agreement to borrow £261m from private investors Cain International.
“It’s good news. It means there is work and opportunities for the community which is a good thing,” said Shinfield South councillor Jim Frewin.
“It’s one of the few developments in the area that actually provides work for local people.”
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He said: “Shinfield has been subjected to a large amount of development and the film studios have been an exemplar of actually talking to the community, actually listening to the community, whereas some of the housing developers have just been absolutely awful.”
Four temporary stages opened in November 2021 and are already let to TV, streaming and film companies.
Disney have been confirmed as one of the first major clients to use the studios this year.
“We are now well on our way to creating a world-leading media hub in the heart of Berkshire,” said Nick Smith and Ian Johnson, Managing Directors at Shinfield Studios, in a joint statement.
“Our work continues to ensure that we establish a studio that brings long term benefits to both the local community and the global creative industry."
Law firm Farrer & Co acted on behalf of Shinfield Studios to secure the deal.
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Head of Commercial Property Mark Gauguier said: “We are delighted to have supported our client in a flagship project that showcases the filmmaking talent and facilities on offer both in the Thames Valley and across the UK, as well as the market’s appetite for participation in the film industry.”
Shinfield Studios is part of Blackhall Global Partners, a film studio located near Atlanta in Georgia, USA.
Blackhall Studios have been used for a series of blockbusters including Godzilla: King of Monsters, Jumanji: The Next Level and The Tomorrow War.
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