Plans for major new film studio in Sunderland

The complex will cover 500,000 sq. ft. and include the largest covered water studio

By Priyanca Rajput 9 Nov 2022

Plans for major new film studio in Sunderland — Aerial shot of Pallion Shipyard. Photo via Sunderland Echo

Pallion Engineering has submitted plans to Sunderland City Council to transform its shipyard on the River Wear into a film production complex.

This proposal for Pallion Shipyard Studios will see the construction of over 500,000 sq. ft. of creative space; which is also set to include the largest sheltered 'water studio' in the world.

The plans are being spearheaded by production company Metalwork Pictures USA, Broadwick Live (global events business), Pallion Engineering and Japan's Kajima Corporation.

Andrew Levitas, from Metalwork Pictures, said: “With rapidly growing demand for world class production space, huge local investment, and historically unique infrastructure, Pallion Film Shipyard Studios is singularly positioned to deliver as the premiere production destination globally. This visionary facility for creators and producers alike will offer an overwhelmingly positive impact on the Sunderland community and surrounding areas.

“An area of particular focus is the creation of a deeply-rooted education and mentorship program which both benefits from as well as serves the content creating community. This is hugely exciting.”

The development is expected to create more than 1,000 new jobs.