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An inquiry into a proposal for film studios south of Holyport (Inspector Mike Worden) and in the green belt closed after 2 weeks’ of evidence. The application which is located within the general cluster of film studios west of London (which accounts for over 70% of all high end film and TV production in the UK and is a globally recognised hub), comprised:
“Outline application for access only to be considered at this stage with all other matters to be reserved for the demolition of the existing agricultural buildings to create a new Film and TV Studio including sound stages, ancillary offices, virtual reality studio, storage and warehouses, workshops, specialist studio facilities and outdoor film backlot; the creation of a new Nature Park incorporating hard and soft landscaping, green infrastructure, sustainable drainage systems, and new cycle and pedestrian facilities; together with supporting infrastructure to include long-stay car parking, cycle parking, boundary treatments, waste storage, sub-stations, and new access roundabout and vehicle route.”
Issues included the need for new studio space, very special circumstances in term of green belt policy, impact on heritage assets, sustainable location, flood risk and economic benefits. The current government’s economic and industrial strategy has eight growth‑driving sectors which includes the creative industries, of which a significant element is film/high end TV studios. This was emphasised in the recent Budget Statement at para. 3.49.
The case has been recovered by the Secretary of State for her own decision.
David Elvin KC represented the appellant, Greystoke CB Ltd (instructed by Montagu Evans).
