Plans submitted for major new studio near High Wycombe

Stage Fifty has submitted a full planning proposal for a permanent, eight-stage film studio near High Wycombe, with a decision expected from Buckinghamshire Council in January 2023. 

The planning application lays out exactly how Stage Fifty plans to develop the 26-acre site, to be known as Wycombe Film Studios, into a world-class, sustainable facility, able to house major feature films and high-end TV productions, and with sustainability and green credentials a strong theme. 

It is estimated that the studio will provide 1200 jobs and around £305m economic output (GVA) into the area. The first sound stage has already been built, under temporary planning approval.  

The plans include tree screening and green wall on the stage buildings. Specially-designed cladding with faded grading aims to help the stages merge with the landscape and skyline.

Stage Fifty also operates Winnersh Film Studios and Farnborough Film Studios in the UK. 

James Enright, CEO of Stage Fifty, said: We want to build a sustainable studio that the people of Wycombe are proud of, one that will create exciting new jobs for the community and generate around £305m GVA. 

As soon as we have a decision from the council, everything can happen in a short timeframe as the design of our innovative sound stages means we can build quickly. Once the studio is fully operational, it will support around 750 full-time jobs and 450 indirect jobs in the supply chain.  

“And we'll develop the skills of young local people by offering traineeships and industry placements at Wycombe Film Studios through Stage Fifty's Academy of Creative and Technical Arts (ACTA). 

Our goal is to build a studio that is not only sustainable in its construction but a place where people are excited to work in the heart of Buckinghamshire. Ultimately, we want Wycombe Film Studios to set the benchmark, attracting filmmakers from all over the world.