PLANS for the first phase of Sunderland’s Crown Works Studios have been given the green light by Sunderland City Council’s Planning Authority, marking a major milestone for the regional and nationally important development on the banks of the River Wear.
The decision represents a significant step forward towards delivery of the first phase of the 31-hectare Crown Works site, which is set to become a major hub for film and high-end TV production and a catalyst for further employment-focused investment in the wider Riverside area.
Studio One will deliver 125,000 sq ft of film and TV production space, including three sound stages, ancillary production accommodation, backlot space and parking, alongside the refurbishment of the historic WH Foster Printworks building.
Extensive site preparation and remediation works have already been completed, with enabling work continuing in autumn 2026.
The approved plans have been developed to ensure Studio One meets the complex technical and operational requirements of modern film and high-end television production, creating an efficient and flexible facility capable of responding to the needs of the industry.
Councillor Chris Eynon, leader of Sunderland City Council, said:
“This is a significant step forward for Crown Works and paves the way for construction of a development that will establish Sunderland and the North East as a major destination for film and high-end TV production.
“Studio One will create world-class infrastructure on the banks of the Wear, opening up opportunities for local people and businesses. This is an exciting development for Sunderland and one that will create jobs, attract investment and position our city and the region to capture a wide range of opportunities in this global industry.”
North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness said:
“I promised to deliver Crown Works Studios, and this is another important milestone to opening the region’s first film and TV studios on the banks of the Wear.
“But we’re not just building the infrastructure. We’re backing the whole sector. Investing in skills, supporting creative businesses and attracting more productions to the region, to make sure that Crown Works delivers opportunities for working class creatives.”
Backed by more than £38m from the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, Studio One forms part of the Crown Works Growth Zone, an area which has been designated for employment creation and sits within the Riverside Sunderland Creative Mayoral Development Zone stretching from Northern Spire bridge to the coast.
Investment in land assembly, remediation and the delivery of Studio One will take public-sector investment in this part of the city to just over £60m.
Delivery of the first phase of Crown Works is expected to unlock further public and private investment, supporting the growth of the creative industries in Sunderland and across the North East.