Barking and Dagenham signs movie studio deal

Barking and Dagenham Council has signed an agreement to build London’s largest film and TV production centre in the borough.

The deal with global media real estate leader Hackman Capital Partners (HCP) will make plans to build Eastbrook Studios London a reality.

The project comes with planning permission, and HCP’s ambitious plans include up to 12 sound stages, three acres of backlot, offices and ancillary space, totalling over half a million square feet.

HCP’s hundreds of millions in direct investment will also involve an endowment to maximise local jobs, placements, apprenticeships, community outreach and supply chain opportunities.

The studios will be a major boost for the borough, the entertainment industry and the capital, creating an estimated 1,200 jobs, contributing £35m per year to the local economy and inspiring more development into thriving East London.

‘Today we’re making history,’ said council leader, Cllr Darren Rodwell.

‘Dagenham used to be famous for factories and Fords but in the future, we will be equally famous for making films. It’s not for the glamour or glory. It’s about bringing in thousands of jobs, providing education and training opportunities for local young people, and giving people hope in these gloomy Covid times.

‘So, I am hugely proud to announce HCP as our partner. They are the right people at the right time. It’s the “reel deal” for our borough, London and the UK.  Movies will be Made in Dagenham,’ added Cllr Rodwell.

The chief executive of Hackman Capital Partners, Michael Hackman added: ‘We are proud to be partnering with Councillor Rodwell and his team to bring this exciting project to fruition. Together with the diverse and talented people of Barking and Dagenham, our investment will help write the script for the next iteration of “Made in Dagenham”.’

Pat Hayes, managing director of Be First, Barking and Dagenham Council’s regeneration arm, said: ‘Having received some really strong bids from very experienced parties in the industry, we decided Hackman Capital Partner’s proven, track record, global reach and strong relationships with major content providers made them the outstanding choice. HCP not only understand our desire to build world class studios in Dagenham they also understand their social responsibilities with their commitment to work with the community to create quality jobs and opportunities for local people.’

Photo Credit – Free-Photos (Pixabay)