Tag: North East Screen

Accelerating the future of digital content

Posted on 3 November 20254 November 2025 by Jo Macleod

BBC and North East Screen launch groundbreaking Digital Accelerator programme

The BBC and North East Screen have officially launched the Digital Accelerator, a pioneering nine-month initiative designed to supercharge the digital ambitions of production companies based in North East England.

Backed by £600,000 of investment from the BBC and North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP), funded by the North East Combined Authority and Tees Valley Combined Authority; the programme will support up to four regional companies in piloting, and delivering digital-first video content aimed at 16–24 year olds on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Twitch, and more.

The programme was officially unveiled at a launch event held at Stockton Arc on Monday 3rd November, with Alison Gwynn, Chief Executive of North East Screen and Fiona Campbell, BBC Controller of Youth Audiences and Interim Director of Unscripted. Athena Witter, CEO & Founder of Engine Pop, also joined to share insights about the digital landscape.

The event brought together production companies, digital creators, freelancers, and industry leaders from across the region. Attendees had the opportunity to hear directly from the BBC commissioning team, learn how to apply and network with fellow creatives and industry experts.

Fiona Campbell, BBC Controller of Youth Audiences and Interim Director of Unscripted:

The Digital Accelerator is a bold next step in our mission to grow digital production talent across the UK. By empowering North East companies to experiment, test, and scale digital-first ideas, we’re not only investing in the region’s creative future, we’re helping shape the BBC’s own evolution in how we reach and reflect 16–24-year-old audiences.

Lisa Laws, Development Director at North East Screen:

The North East is a rapidly growing production hub, and we’re committed to sustaining that momentum by backing our companies to create bold, digital-first content that resonates with young audiences.

“As viewing habits continue to evolve, the Digital Accelerator represents a transformative leap forward for the region’s screen sector. This programme is not just about content; it’s about building a future-ready ecosystem that drives long-term growth.

North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness:

The North East is full of creative talent, and the Digital Accelerator programme shows our commitment to helping content creators and production companies thrive in the digital space.

“As audiences shift to platforms like YouTube and TikTok, we’re working with North East Screen to help our regional companies develop the skills and content that connect with younger viewers.

“This initiative strengthens our region’s growing reputation in both traditional and digital storytelling on screen, creating real opportunities for our home-grown talent and future-proofing our creative economy.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen:

Teesside is now recognised nationally as one of the UK’s fastest-growing regions for digital and creative industries, and it’s vital we keep building on that momentum.

“By embracing cutting-edge technologies and backing innovation, we’re helping our exceptional businesses, creators, and freelancers thrive – locally, nationally, and globally.

“Initiatives like the Digital Accelerator show our commitment to making Teesside, Darlington, and Hartlepool leaders in the digital economy. We’re not just creating opportunities, we’re enabling people to build world-class careers right here at home.

The Digital Accelerator is part of the BBC’s wider commitment to growing production capacity and creative opportunity across the UK, with a focus on building a sustainable digital production ecosystem in the North East.

The programme will include mentorship from leading industry experts and a series of webinars focusing on audience insights and digital best practice.

To be eligible for the programme, applicants must be based in the North East or Tees Valley Combined Authorities, demonstrate a strong track record in content production, and show a clear commitment to employing at least 50% creative talent locally.

Interested companies have until Friday 21st November 2025 to complete an expression of interest.

Scout About: Towns & Transport 2025

Posted on 20 October 202521 October 2025 by Curtis Wake

Experiencing the North East From Ports to Cityscapes

This month, North East Screen’s Film Office team welcomed Location Managers from across the UK on a two-day Scout About: Towns & Transport familiarisation trip, giving industry professionals first-hand experience of the North East’s world-class filming locations and the variety of environments the region offers for productions of all genres.

The trip began in Darlington before moving to Tees Valley Airport, where the group explored runways, control towers and terminal spaces ready to double for international settings on screen. They then visited Middlesbrough’s Transporter Bridge, a dramatic industrial landmark, and Teesworks, one of the UK’s largest industrial sites, offering vast cinematic backdrops. Day one concluded aboard HMS Trincomalee in Hartlepool, alongside a waterfront rich with maritime heritage.

Day two focused on the North East’s urban and creative environments. Location Managers explored the sharp, contemporary developments of Keel Square, Maker & Faber, City Hall and Keel Crossing in Sunderland, then moved to Sheepfolds, a regenerated industrial quarter, followed by Gateshead Quays, Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, and Ouseburn. In Newcastle, the itinerary included Grainger Market, Central Arcade, The Lit & Phil, Blackfriars, Chinatown, and The Common Room, finishing at the Helix and St James’ Park. The variety of historical streets, cultural landmarks and modern infrastructure highlighted the North East’s filming-friendly range, offering locations suitable for productions of every scale and style.

Over the past three years, the North East has seen £55 million in production spend, supported over 1,000 full-time equivalent jobs and nearly 120,000 production days, contributing to a 90% increase in production activity across the region. To build on this momentum, Fam Trips help keep the region top of mind for production crews, connecting decision-makers with local locations, infrastructure, and businesses – the one front door to our screen industry.

“From getting such a positive, film-friendly response from locations and meeting the Film Office team, I would be very comfortable starting a project in the North East.”

North East Screen is gearing up for the next Fam Trip, this time venturing into sci-fi and futuristic locations – filming-friendly environments that are ready to inspire imaginative new productions.

Want to get involved? Express your interest here or contact the Film Office for more information: filmoffice@northeastscreen.org

5 Announce North East-Based Lonesome Pine’s New Psychological Drama

Posted on 30 September 202530 September 2025 by Curtis Wake

5 Announce Eleanor Tomlinson and Matthew Lewis Set to Star in Lonesome Pine’s Psychological Drama The Family Secret

5 has today announced the exciting cast line-up for new drama The Family Secret (w/t), a 4×60 mystery series from Lonesome Pine, in association with Sphere Abacus and North East Screen.

A commission previously announced in 5’s bumper slate earlier this year, The Family Secret (w/t) is a gripping, psychological drama that asks: what if your past isn’t what you think it is? Eleanor Tomlinson (One Day, Poldark) stars as Amanda Blakefield, whose life is a happy one with her husband, Jimmy played by Matthew Lewis (Harry Potter, All Creatures Great and Small), and their son Luke, played by newcomer James Younger. Amanda has her world shattered after she is left an enormous inheritance by a man she has neither met nor heard of before. Her life starts to disintegrate as she becomes embroiled in the world of The Worrall Family. The patriarch Martin Worrall, played by Denis Lawson (Bleak House, New Tricks), is head of a family which is bound in past secrets. As Amanda’s story leads her further and further into the Northumbrian countryside, she begins to unravel the past. And all of their lives are turned upside down.

Further cast include Rebecca Front (The Thick of It, Lewis) as Martin’s wife Fiona, with Callum Woodhouse (All Creatures Great and Small, The Durrells) as his son Anthony. Stephen Tompkinson (DCI Banks, Wild At Heart) joins as farm worker Boots Maddison, Paula Wilcox (Trying, Upstart Crow) as Amanda’s mother Linda, Danielle Walters (Chewing Gum, Kill Your Friends) as Amanda’s best friend Sandy, and Nina Wadia (Eastenders, Goodness Gracious Me) as solicitor Laura.

The series was commissioned by Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor, 5 and is produced by Lonesome Pine (The Inheritance, The Feud), with funding by North East Screen and in association with Sphere Abacus who will distribute the series internationally. Lesley Douglas will Produce for Lonesome Pine, alongside Ellie Hill. Executive Producers for Sphere Abacus are Jonathan Ford and Will Stapley. Gayle Woodruffe manages the Production Fund on behalf of North East Screen. Writer Aschlin Ditta (The Feud, The Inheritance, Doc Martin) joins with Andy de Emmony (Vigil, The Feud, The Nest) on board as Director.

On bringing this story to the 5 audience, Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor, 5 says: “The Family Secret explores the fragility of family and the ripple effects of long-buried truths, all anchored by a brilliant cast led by Eleanor Tomlinson. This is a drama that promises to keep audiences hooked from the very first minute and we’re delighted to work with Lonesome Pine again after the success of The Inheritance and The Feud.”

The Family Secret (w/t) is filming now across the North East of England and is set to air on 5 in 2026.

North East Screen Celebrates 3 Years of Big Impacts and Bigger Ambitions

Posted on 25 September 202529 September 2025 by Jo Macleod

North East Screen is proud to unveil its 3 Years of Big Impacts Report (2022–2025), showcasing a remarkable period of growth in a difficult global climate.

North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP) investments across the North East is creating opportunities for the resilient world class talent based in the region to innovate and pivot to new ways of working across an ever changing creative industry.

The report highlights a 131% surge in regional production spend, driven by strategic investment, the impactful work of the North East Screen Film Office, and the growth of a vibrant creative ecosystem fostered through collaboration with regional and national partners, including the BBC. With over £65 million in GVA, the North East has firmly established itself as the fastest-growing region in the UK for screen industries.

Other key achievements over the three years include:

The equivalent of 1,046 FTE jobs created across the screen sector, according to the EIA Saffrey report
An impressive £6.70 return on every £1 invested in projects via the North East Production Fund (NEPF)
£2.37 million invested in 10 productions through the NEPF
65% of crew members employed on NEPF productions are from the North East
A 90% increase in filming days with productions staying and filming for longer in the region thanks to alternative studio spaces
6,422 paid training days on production delivered to support lifelong workforce development
8 regularly commissioned companies – up from just one prior to 2022
50 investments in slate and business development for regional companies and talent

North East Screen Chief Executive, Alison Gwynn said,

“Not only is the North East the fastest growing region in the UK for screen industries, it’s also a region bursting with untapped potential, despite the challenges the global screen industry has faced.

“This report is a testament to the power of our unique public sector and industry collaboration. Everything achieved here is thanks to the incredible talent, crew, businesses and world class stories that are rooted in our region.

“Productions come to the North East for our world class locations, which are vibrant, diverse and really accessible, and stay because they find all they need via our welcoming front door to the industry in the region.

“This is just the beginning. As we enter the next phase of our delivery, we will ensure that our activity reflects the diversity of the region, backs innovation, and has sustainable and inclusive practices embedded across all of it.”

North East Screen is the delivery programme of the North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP), driving growth across the screen industries and wider creative industries in the North East and Tees Valley with funding support from the Tees Valley Combined Authority and North East Combined Authority. NESIP is committed to unlocking the full creative potential of the region, with the aim to more than double its share of the UK film and TV production market, generating an economic impact of £88 million over the initial five year period.

In collaboration with the BBC and alongside regional education institutions, NESIP is building a sustainable, inclusive screen ecosystem that nurtures local talent, supports production, and attracts national and international projects.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said,

“We are a region full of creative talent and that is why we’re investing £6,252,944 to support the groundbreaking work North East Screen is doing to bring major film and TV productions to our region.

“Our iconic landmarks and locations have been beamed across the world and featured in leading film and TV productions, including the Harry Potter films and more recently 28 Years Later.

“Bringing more productions to the region means hundreds of new creative jobs and opportunities, right from starring roles to those supporting behind the scenes.

“We’re setting the stage to become a real powerhouse of UK film and TV production, and as our plans for leading studios right here in our region progress, it’s an incredibly exciting time for the creative industries and talent located here in the Noth East.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said,

“It’s outstanding that our region’s vibrant TV and film production industry is going from strength to strength as the fastest-growing in the UK – supporting hugely successful shows such as the powerful Teesside story told in ‘I Fought The Law‘.

“Our support – in collaboration with the work of North East Screen – is helping this area establish itself as creative powerhouse and become a place where local people can build exciting, skilled careers.

“Through the Tees Valley Investment Zone, we’re putting a real focus on supporting our fast-growing creative and digital sectors – driving forward with the £33.5m expansion of The Northern Studios and an exciting new production village in Hartlepool.

“These developments are creating well-paid jobs, attracting investment, and making our region the go-to place for world-class productions. We’re proud to be playing our part in this success story.”

As the region continues to grow, North East Screen remains committed to backing homegrown talent and championing the crews and businesses that bring global content to the region. With the North East, Crown Works Studios and the Tees Valley Investment Zone – focused on growing creative and digital industries – highlighted in the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy, the region is in a good place to continue its growth, enhancing why the North East is considered one of the best places to live, work and play in the UK.

Watch the Impact Video

Success for I Fought the Law

Posted on 19 September 202519 September 2025 by Curtis Wake

Success for I Fought the Law

North East Production Funded production I Fought the Law has received rave reviews with audiences and critics following its debut on ITV.

The series averaged 1.90 million overnight across its four parts, was streamed over 10 million times in its first week and ranks as ITVX’s 4^th most watched dramas.

The drama which was filmed entirely in the region was supported by the North East Production Fund managed by North East Screen on behalf of the North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP).

Gayle Woodruffe, Operations Director at North East Screen who manages the £5.3 Production fund (on behalf of NESIP) said;
“North East Screen are proud to have supported I Fought the Law. This is the kind of drama that resonates on a number of levels and as a North East story we were so pleased that we were able to attract the production company to the region to film in the region and 76% of crew working on the series were from the region.”

I Fought the Law stars Sheridan Smith and is based on Ann Ming’s book For the Love of Julie. The heart-breaking, real-life story of a mother’s love, courage and determination to change the Double Jeopardy Law, and see her daughter’s murderer brought to justice, is dramatized by ITV.

Written by screenwriter Jame Crichton the series recounts how tenacious mother of three, Ann Ming, battled for 15 years so that her daughter’s murderer could finally face justice, having been controversially acquitted following two mistrials.

Ann Ming, acted as a consultant throughout the production process and attended the regional screening hosted by North East Screen which marked the release of the 4 part drama, celebrating the achievements of the production, cast and crew.

Charlotte Webber, Executive Producer of I Fought the Law said of shooting in the North East;
“When you get support from a region it’s about the resources, the expertise, the knowledge. It’s a very attractive proposition as a producer to come to a region like the North East to collaborate and work.”

North East Screen are on the look out for the next High End Television drama, click here to find out full details of the North East Production Fund and please get in touch if you’d like to find out more.

You can see all 4 parts of I Fought the Law now on ITVX I Fought the Law – Watch Episode – ITVX

28 Years Later – a love letter to the North East

Posted on 19 September 202522 September 2025 by Curtis Wake

How the North East helped bring 28 Years Later to life

28 Years Later, the highly anticipated follow-up to the iconic franchise, delivers a thrilling story, and behind the scenes showcases the North East as a production-ready region with stunning locations, skilled crew, and strong local support. The North East Screen Film Office played an important role, providing hands-on guidance from early development through to wrap.

From the earliest planning stages, North East Screen worked closely with DNA Films to support location scouting and development. After first connecting at the industry event FOCUS in 2023, the team fast-tracked the production by providing location ideas, key contacts, and practical support. Within just eight weeks, meetings and recces were underway. A two-day Familiarisation Trip gave the location managers a full picture of what the region could offer and introduced them to the people who would help bring the summer shoot to life. Bespoke location and facilities brochures highlighted hidden gems, while strong relationships across the Filming Friendly Network helped unlock access to unique sites and local partners.

Production highlights

43 of 51 locations (84%) sourced locally, including private estates with breathtaking landscapes and on-site accommodation for cast and crew
76 local crew members, including trainees supported through North East Screen’s Access initiative, which identified skills gaps and onboarded local talent
173 supporting artists, mostly from the North East
Nearby set build space secured with Sunderland City Council, allowing the recreation of the iconic Holy Island causeway. An unused warehouse was transformed into a fully functioning water studio, and DNA Films extended the lease to build additional sets
Facilities and services utilised: accommodation, storage, set build, casting, and even archery training

To celebrate the film’s release, a Gala Screening at Tyneside Cinema brought together director Danny Boyle, lead cast Alfie Williams, and chief ‘Alpha’ Chi Lewis-Parry. The event attracted 30 press accreditations and coverage from 15 media titles, generating high local engagement and positioning the North East as a destination for productions that have global appeal.

Bringing the screen to the region

In collaboration with Visit Britain and Destination North East, the “Visit If You Dare” campaign invited fans to explore the iconic locations of 28 Years Later. The film’s biohazard symbol and campaign hashtag were projected onto key landmarks across the region. By linking big-screen storytelling with destination marketing, the initiative encouraged audiences to discover the North East’s beautiful landscapes, which feature as eerie locations in the film.

With 28 Years Later available worldwide, audiences can experience a gripping story set against the North East, while seeing firsthand the work of local crews, the facilities and locations that supported the production, and the collaborative infrastructure that makes the region a premier destination for film and television.

Planning approval secured for major expansion of Hartlepool’s film and TV production industry

Posted on 17 September 202517 September 2025 by Curtis Wake

Planning approval secured for major expansion of Hartlepool’s film and TV production industry

A £33.5 million major expansion of film and television production facilities in Hartlepool is officially underway, following planning approval being granted for a transformative new development.

The Northern Studios will undergo an expansion, including the construction of larger studios and the installation of industry-leading equipment and facilities. In addition, a Screen Industries Production Village will be developed in the surrounding area, repurposing nine disused buildings into cutting-edge pre and post-production spaces, workshops, and collaborative hubs for creative professionals.

Among the buildings to be revitalised is the Grade-II listed Shades Hotel, which will be brought back into use alongside several other heritage properties.

Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: “This is a game-changing moment for Hartlepool—not just for our creative industries, but for our town as a whole. The £33.5 million investment into expanding our film and television production facilities will create over 130 new jobs, attract further private sector investment, and deliver a lasting boost to our local economy.

“We’re transforming nine disused buildings into dynamic spaces for production, innovation, and collaboration, breathing new life into areas that have long needed revitalisation. This development will help nurture local talent, support small businesses, and position Hartlepool as a serious player in the UK’s creative sector.

I’m incredibly proud of the partnership working that has brought us to this point. Together, we’re creating jobs, driving investment, and laying the foundations for a more prosperous and vibrant future for Hartlepool.”

The project is being led by Hartlepool Borough Council, in partnership with The Northern School of Art, Tees Valley Combined Authority and North East Screen, the region’s screen industries development agency. Funding for the project has been secured from the UK Government and Tees Valley Investment Zone.

Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor said: “This is fantastic news for Hartlepool and the whole of Teesside. The expansion of The Northern Studios and the creation of a brand-new TV and film production village will put our region firmly on the map as a home for world-class screen industries.

“Not only will this huge investment bring derelict buildings back to life, it will also create high-quality jobs and opportunities for local people in an exciting and growing sector.

“We have already seen through shows like I Fought The Law how we are telling powerful and engaging stories about Teesside, Hartlepool and Darlington – and these new facilities will build on that to deliver something truly transformational for the town and wider region.”

The Northern Studios, which opened in 2022, have already hosted high-profile productions including ITV’s ratings hit, I Fought the Law, ITV comedy Transaction and the feature film Jackdaw. The expansion will build on this success, attracting both national and international productions to the town.

Martin Raby, Principal of The Northern School of Art, said: “This is excellent news. The Studios upgrade coupled with the creation of the Production Village, supported by the first-rate work of North East Screen, will mean that many more productions will be attracted to our region.

“It is gratifying to see this development of a project initiated by the School in 2016 and consistently backed by Hartlepool Borough Council, Tees Valley Combined Authority and now the Hartlepool Development Corporation. Without their support we wouldn’t see this great opportunity for change in our town and for the region.”

Alison Gwynn, Chief Executive of North East Screen, said: “Securing planning approval for the Hartlepool Production Village and the expansion of Northern Studios marks a pivotal moment for the North East’s screen sector.

“This development will allow us to continue to develop a thriving ecosystem for local talent and businesses who are working across linear TV and digital formats, and see more TV and film production across Hartlepool and the wider Tees Valley.

“We have stunning and diverse locations, experienced talented crew based in the region, and a network of local authorities who will ensure productions happen seamlessly.”

The development is being delivered in collaboration with industry specialists Leonard Design, Stace and TIME + SPACE.

Piers Read, CEO of TIME + SPACE, said: “TIME + SPACE is delighted to have advised on this hugely significant regeneration in Hartlepool. As specialists in developing creatively led real estate, we are excited to be going forward by revitalising these much loved but overlooked urban spaces by turning them into vibrant communities driven by film, entertainment, media and hospitality.”

John Holden, Director Major Projects at Leonard Design, said: “Leonard Design is proud to be designing and delivering the transformational Hartlepool Screen Industries Production Village and Northern Studios expansion, working alongside TIME + SPACE and in collaboration with Hartlepool Borough Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority. This visionary project establishes Hartlepool as the North East’s premier creative district, creating significant employment while transforming disused town centre buildings into vibrant creative workspaces and securing the town’s place at the heart of the UK’s rapidly expanding screen industries sector.”

With planning approvals now in place and funding secured, construction is expected to begin within the coming months.

Middlesbrough’s Wander Films to co-produce two-part series with Daisybeck Studios for 5

Posted on 20 August 202520 August 2025 by Jo Macleod

5 to follow Ben Fogle on high stakes mission as he takes over iconic clothing brand

5 have announced an ambitious new two-part documentary series – co-produced by Daisybeck Studios and Middlesbrough-based Wander Films – which follows adventurer and broadcaster Ben Fogle as he embarks on his most formidable challenge yet: taking over an iconic British business.

Ben Fogle: Made in Sheffield (w/t) (2x 60’), will chart Ben’s gamble into the unknown as he risks his life savings, reputation, and family’s financial future to invest in and nurture Buffalo, a legendary British brand. The Sheffield-based cult outdoor brand is known for its old-school, indestructible kit and is beloved by mountain rescue teams and military folk.

All eyes are on Ben as we follow him from factory floor to shop launch party as he tries to bring a cult brand into the modern era.

The commission follows 5’s commissioning team visiting the North East earlier this year to meet emerging production companies in the region as part of an event organised by North East Screen.

Ben Fogle commented: “I’ve taken on some big adventures in my life, but this might be the boldest yet. Buying a Sheffield factory and investing in Buffalo is a huge leap – financially and emotionally. I’ve put everything into it because I believe in the brand, the people, and the power of British manufacturing. It’s a challenge, no doubt, but I can’t wait to see how it turns out.”

Denise Seneviratne Commissioning Editor, Factual at 5 added: “I believe this new series will offer a fresh perspective on Ben – one our audience hasn’t seen before. It’s a bold and risky personal challenge that promises both heart and grit. I’m genuinely excited to be working with the small North Eastern company Wander, based in Middlesbrough, alongside Daisybeck. I believe they’ll craft a compelling and emotional series as Ben trades the wild for the workshop in his mission to revive a British iconic brand.”

Mark McMullen, Executive Producer for Daisybeck Studios said “We’re thrilled to be part of Ben’s boldest adventure yet. This series will showcase the vision, resilience, and sheer determination needed to revive a much-loved Yorkshire brand. We’ll be following Ben from the factory floor through to his ambitious relaunch and can’t wait to share this remarkable journey with the audience.”

Chloë Clover Executive Producer, Wander Films noted: “This is exactly the kind of story we love; bold, full of personality, real people taking risks. Buffalo is a Sheffield icon with a cult following and Ben’s mission to bring it into the modern era is packed with heart and high stakes. We’re buzzing to co-produce and can’t wait for audiences to see how it plays out.”

Ben Fogle: Made in Sheffield (w/t) is a 2 x 60’ series commissioned by Denise Seneviratne Commissioning Editor, Factual at 5. The series will be co-produced by Daisybeck Studios and Wander Films and directed by Adam Caldow. Mark McMullen serves as Executive Producer for Daisybeck Studios and Chloë Clover and Lou Tonner are Executive Producers for Wander Films.

The series is expected to air in 2026 on 5.

BBC and North East Screen Launch First-of-its-Kind Digital Accelerator

Posted on 20 August 202529 October 2025 by Jo Macleod

The BBC Digital Accelerator, delivered in partnership with North East Screen, is designed to elevate the next wave of world-class digital content creators right here in the North East of England.

Who’s it for?

We’re looking for bold, ambitious production companies ready to develop standout content for online platforms that can generate future revenue. If you’re passionate about reaching audiences with innovative, platform-native video – think vertical formats, livestreams, creator-led collaborations, and social-first storytelling – we want to hear from you.

But it’s not just about companies. We’re also actively seeking digital creators who champion the North East, both on-screen and behind the scenes. If you’re producing content that resonates across TikTok, YouTube, Twitch, or other platforms – or if you’re eager to partner with companies shaping the future of digital storytelling – this is your chance to connect.

Why get involved?

This is more than just an accelerator. It’s an opportunity to:

• Apply as a company and access support to scale your content.

• Connect as a creator and find future collaborators in the region.

• Network with both companies and talent who share your ambition to supercharge the North East’s digital scene.

Let’s talk

Whether you’re a company hoping to apply, a creator looking to collaborate, or simply curious about how the BBC Digital Accelerator could help you grow, complete our expression of interest today.

All details and guidance will soon be available at https://www.bbc.co.uk/commissioning/.

Sunderland studio plans move to final investment stage

Posted on 1 July 20251 July 2025 by Jo Macleod

PLANS for a world-class film studio complex are being presented to the investment market, with the aim to put in place a final funder and developer later this year.

Sunderland City Council as land-owner and project lead is moving to test the appetite of the wider investment market for the Crown Works Film Studios opportunity, and is appointing a specialist agent who will be engaging investors, including the likes of Fulwell Entertainment who were part of the joint venture which first tabled proposals for a North East studio and continue to champion the project.

The council have confirmed that – as is necessary in public sector projects – they will be testing the investment market, to ensure that they secure the best partner to push ahead with the studio plans. The process, which will take place over the coming months, gives interested parties a window of opportunity to commit to develop the first phase of the studios. A final decision will then be made by Sunderland City Council on who will progress with the studios.

As the development of Crown Works Studios, which has been backed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, will involve considerable public sector support in both grant and the disposal 30 hectares of land on the banks of the Wear – market testing is required to ensure the proposed developer(s) plans represent the best opportunity for the project to demonstrate the return required on the public investment.

Councillor Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “These studios represent a game-changing opportunity for the city and we cannot wait to see them progress.

“There’s an absolute commitment to deliver the best possible delivery partner to move this forward and we expect that we will have funding confirmed and ready to progress the first phase of the studios by the time remediation works complete later this year.”

A programme of remediation work is now on-site, instructed by Sunderland City Council using funding from UK Government unlocked through the North East Combined Authority, to prepare the former Crown Works site for development.

Planning permission has been secured for Crown Works Studios and a total funding package worth £120m to support its development is available, thanks partly to the efforts of the local authority in lobbying Government to support the development of a film studios on the site.

The Government’s support for Crown Works – which was channelled via the North East Combined Authority – represents a significant incentive that underpins the commercial viability of the scheme for investors looking to get involved in the first phase of its development.

Fulwell Entertainment remains a committed champion of the scheme. Other key supporters include North East Screen, the region’s screen agency, which is headquartered in Sunderland.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “We have big ambitions to grow the North East’s creative sector and Crown Works Studios in Sunderland is a key element of our vision, alongside opening the first major label recording studio in the region and opening a national centre for new writing.

“We’re supporting Sunderland City Council in the job of preparing the site, which can eventually be the largest film and TV production complex in the UK outside of London and the South East.

“In the process we’ll create thousands of new jobs for local people and end the days where people have to leave the North East to pursue a career in creative industries. This is why the project has to date secured a public sector funding package worth £120m including £25m which we have put in to begin preparation of the site at Pallion on Sunderland Riverside. We remain confident that this will be a flagship site in a thriving industry for years to come.”

The studios will provide infrastructure that North East Screen Chief Executive Alison Gwynn said will underpin the region’s success in the sector.

She said: “The region is 100% committed to studio development as part of their support for the wider creative industry.

“Film and TV production in the North East is up 131% over the last three years and we recently saw one of the most eagerly anticipated blockbusters, 28 Years Later, showcase not only some outstanding locations, but also some epic scenes created here in our alternative studio space. Not only did they shoot more than 80% of the film in the region, but they also were based here for over nine months.”

“We are now excited to be looking for the right investor for the next stage of our regions growth. The North East have never been in a better position to make the most of these exciting opportunities.”

Creative Industries are at the heart of Government’s priorities in its Industrial Strategy. It is one of eight key growth sectors identified in the Strategy, with a published Sector Plan demonstrating a commitment to investment, IP protection and enhanced R&D for the sector.