Members of the public are being asked to help shape transformational plans for Hartlepool’s growing film and TV industry at a two-day event.
Work is being developed on multi-million pound projects to develop the town as a centre for film and TV production, including a significant expansion of the Northern Studios complex in Lynn Street.
The studio expansion will complement plans led by Hartlepool Borough Council to create a Production Village in the Lynn Street and Whitby Street area and build on the town’s burgeoning film-making pedigree.
Members of the public can find out more about the proposals at a consultation event in Hartlepool on Tuesday 15th April, at The Northern Studios, on Lynn Street, from 12noon until 7pm, and Wednesday 16th April from 12noon to 7pm, at the former H&M unit in Middleton Grange Shopping Centre.
It will be led by consultants Pegasus Planning and Leonard Design, who are working in partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council and Hartlepool Development Corporation, and project leaders will be on hand to explain the plans, answer questions and listen to views.
Hartlepool Borough Council Leader Councillor Brenda Harrison said:
“Creating jobs, driving investment in Hartlepool and delivering regeneration are all key aims of our council and this project delivers all three in an abundance. We are proud to be leading the way with this transformational project for Hartlepool.
“The film and TV industry has been one of Hartlepool’s fastest growing sectors in recent years and we are building on that success and creating more jobs for local people in a wide range of careers.
“We are excited for work to begin but before we get to that point, we are keen to engage with a range of stakeholders including members of the public to get views on the proposals so please do take up this opportunity to get involved and have your say.”
Tees Valley Mayor and Hartlepool Development Corporation Chairman Ben Houchen said:
“We are dedicated to developing Hartlepool as a powerhouse for TV and film production and have made excellent progress so far.
“However we want to go much further to deliver this significant investment, which will bring international productions to the town and create well-paid skilled jobs in Hartlepool.
“It’s vital that local people directly benefit from these projects – which is why we want their involvement in this process, to hear what is planned and help shape these developments.”
Funding for the Northern Studios expansion would be provided under a proposed £15million allocation from the Tees Valley Investment Zone. Tees Valley secured Investment Zone status in 2023, with a total of £160million allocated to drive the creative and digital sectors.
Hartlepool Borough Council’s is leading on the Production Village project, supported by £16.5million from the Levelling Up Fund.
Working with North East Screen, Northern Studios opened in 2022 supported by funding from the Tees Valley Mayor and the Tees Valley Combined Authority in partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council.
It is the only large-scale film and TV studio facility in the North East. Recent productions filmed at the studios include feature film Jackdaw alongside Sky true crime documentaries, ITV drama and comedy productions. It has also been used as a unit base for productions filming on location in Hartlepool.
BBC Comedy’s Smoggie Queens, ITV drama I Fought the Law, and ITV comedy Transaction were also created with the help of the facility.
Northern Studios is based next to the Northern School of Art which provides training and education courses for the creative industries.
North East Screen Chief Executive Alison Gwynn said:
“The North East has been the fastest growing region in the UK for the film and TV industry which has seen an increase in production by 89%.
“The development of the Northern Studios and Production Village in Hartlepool will see the town and surrounding areas become a real hotbed for world class film, digital and TV productions as well as suppliers to the wider creative industries businesses.
“It’ll also provide opportunities for local people who have previously had to leave the region to work in the industry.”
The Northern School of Art Principal, Dr Martin Raby, said:
“This is an important step in the development of The Northern Studios. The Studios have been operating successfully, which is testament to the initial backing from Hartlepool Borough Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority, but the requirements of the sector are progressing.
“The creation of the Production Village and the enhancement of the Studios, supported by the sterling efforts of North East Screen to attract productions, will facilitate much greater screen industry activity in Hartlepool, the Tees Valley and the wider North East, bringing further economic benefits to the town and the region. In addition, it will provide work experience opportunities for students and will boost employment prospects for our graduates.”
