Warner Bros Discovery announces expansion for Leavesden studio

Warner Bros discovery has announced the expansion of their Warner Bros Leavesden Studio complex.

The UK production outfit will become the hub for all DC Studio projects.

The expansion sees the addition of 10 new sound stages and an additional 400,000 square feet of production and support space, bringing the total from 1.14 million sq. ft. to 1.78 million sq ft. Construction will begin in the second quarter of 2024, which will increase the production capacity at WBSL by more than 50%, with a conclusion date of 2027.

Recent film and television shows shot on WBSL soundstages include: the global phenomenon Barbie; HBO’s hit series House of the Dragon; and the upcoming film Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. 

Warner Bros report that their expansion plans will create an additional 4,000 direct and indirect jobs across the UK and increase their contribution to the UK economy by more than £200m. This will raise the total value of film and television production at WBSL to an excess of £600m annually. 

The studio expansion has been developed alongside Three Rivers District Council and Watford Borough Council, and have prioritised sustainability as part of their plans.

WBD also remains committed to skills development through CrewHQ, an initiative launching later this year to nurture workforce development in film and television production.

An on-site training centre will support existing crew, and create career pathways for those not already in the film industry with transferable skills, in order to foster the next generation of talent. In addition, CrewHQ will support regional skills programs, outreach educational support, careers events and entry level training. 

In a statement, Simon Robinson, Chief Operating Officer of Warner Bros. Discovery Studios, said: "Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden is globally-recognized for its exceptional sound stages and facilities, and with this planned expansion adding significant capacity and capabilities, it will be home to even more incredible storytelling for both film and television projects.

"We are proud to not only be growing our productions in Leavesden and making it the main hub for DC Studios, but also to be growing our economic and community contributions to the UK’s creative sector."