IT’S GOING to be a world-leading media hub that makes Hollywood blockbusters, and it’s being built on our doorstep.
Last week, councillors from Wokingham borough joined University of Reading’s pro vice-chancellor, and a team from Shinfield Studios to make the start of the second phase of construction for the site.
When finished, it will comprise 18 sound stages – areas where actors are filmed when making movies. It will be one of the largest film and TV studios in the UK.
The first phase, which has been completed, saw four of the sound stages completed, after an accelerated planning permission process.
These are now being used for forthcoming productions.
And Friday’s visit was a chance for councillors to see the work currently being undertaken to prepare the ground, and the foundations, for the next five sound stages to be construction.
In all, it will be a 85,000 sq m media hub, situated on the Thames Valley Science Park, the new campus from the university.
Council leader John Halsall was joined by Shinfield colleagues Cllrs Jim Frewin, Barrie Patman and Jackie Rance, as well as Paul Inman from the University of Reading, a team from Curo Construction, and Shinfield Studios joint managing directors Nick Smith and Ian Johnson.
“We are now well on our way to creating a world-leading media hub in the heart of Berkshire,” the joint managing directors said.
“The encouragement from Wokingham Borough Council, the University and the local community has been fantastic.
“We would like to thank all our partners who have supported our progress so far.”
