Production Park secures approval to expand site

A West Yorkshire creative industries campus is set to grow significantly after securing planning approval for a major expansion.

Production Park has been given the green light for the next phase of development at its Wakefield site, increasing its footprint to nearly 30 acres. 

Officials say the scheme will deliver two new purpose-built studios, more than 70,000sq ft of additional commercial space and expanded education facilities.

They say the expansion will help attract more large-scale stage and screen productions, building on its credentials as a rehearsal and filming base for global artists and broadcasters, most recently hosting the full cast and crew of Netflix’s Adolescence for six months in 2024.

Tracy Brabin, mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Production Park is already a magnetic creative cluster that attracts world-class talent and major productions. 

“It’s one of a kind nationally, and at the forefront of exciting new developments in the creative industries. 

“Adding new studios, commercial space and training facilities will turbocharge its ability to support local businesses, boost skills, create jobs, and drive growth.”

Councillor Jack Hemingway, Wakefield Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and economic growth, added: “Production Park’s reputation in the industry is second to none in Europe. 

“And it’s fantastic to have a locally based business at the very top of its game. 

“Expanding its facilities can bring even more business into our district, which means more jobs and investment locally. 

“Production Park is going from strength to strength and continues to grow Wakefield and West Yorkshire’s reputation as the home of world class creative industries.”

Alongside new studio space, the plans include additional tenant areas, a training and performance centre and further teaching facilities for the Academy of Live Technology, the on-site higher education provider focused on live events and production careers.

Established more than 20 years ago as a single rehearsal studio, Production Park has evolved into a world-class production hub, home to leading industry names such as TAIT, ROE and 4Wall, which have established offices, manufacturing and showroom facilities on site. 

They sit alongside innovative businesses including HIVE and Precision Devices, creating a collaborative ecosystem that supports global stage and screen productions.

Lee Brooks, chief executive of Production Park, added: “This expansion marks an important next phase for Production Park as we continue to thoughtfully widen opportunities for industry to produce, educate and connect here. 

“For over 20 years we’ve built an environment and culture that understands the process and value of the stage and screen industries. 

“We’ve seen award-winning productions created on this campus, and watched students go on to build international careers. 

“We are united in our continued vision to connect world-class innovators, creators and producers in a space that supports incredible work for global audiences.”

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