GENSOCIAL
A new hub for the creative industries is set to be built in Birmingham city centre after £3 million in funding was approved by business chiefs.
Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) has agreed the fresh injection of capital for the £18 million scheme at The Bond warehouse in Digbeth.
This will enable work to commence on the site, subject to planning approval being secured by developer Oval Real Estate which acquired the site in 2018.
The aim is to create a 50,000 sq ft campus facility for independent TV production and creative content developers who will be able to come together and collaborate in the flexible space.
In addition, broadcasters will be able to work there alongside producers.
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The development is the first step towards creating a cluster of film, TV, games and virtual production in Digbeth.
Peaky Blinders creator Stephen Knight is also eyeing a site in district for his own TV studios project.
Anita Bhalla, GBSLEP’s director for creative and culture said: “This investment of £3 million reflects our commitment to the creative industries which we see as a priority sector that stimulates inclusive economic growth and a catalyst for job creation.
“The creative content hub will be an exciting addition to the media landscape and at the heart of innovative production in the region.
“It’s also an exciting step towards creating a TV, film and multimedia cluster in the heart of Birmingham’s creative quarter in Digbeth.”
A planning application has been submitted for five existing and derelict heritage buildings on the Fazeley Street site.
James Craig, founder of Oval Real Estate and owner of the Digbeth Estate, added: “The Digbeth Estate is delighted to have secured match funding from GBSLEP for the conversion of the much-loved Bond Company in Digbeth into a centre of excellence for creatives in the West Midlands.
“Digbeth has a long history of attracting raw talent; this project will bring independent production businesses of all sizes to the area and continue the resurgence of creative activity across the West Midlands.”
