Liverpool is another step on the way to having its very own state of the art film studios, as work is set to begin on the redevelopment of the former Littlewoods building. A deal has been signed between developers Capital & Centric and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, the BBC reports.
The distinctive Art Deco style building was completed in 1938, and served as head office to the Littlewoods football pools company. During WWII, it was repurposed as an aircraft factory and a government war department. It was then returned to Littlewoods, who were a major employer in the city, and had a reputation as being a good company to work for.
As the business became increasingly automated, the need for the vast building declined and it eventually fully closed in 2003. The building has remained largely empty since, and its decline was hastened by a fire in 2019. All that looks set to change, with ambitious plans to convert it into a major film and media hub.
John Moffat of Capital & Centric said: “This is a huge moment for the Littlewoods Project and the Liverpool city region. Regeneration at this scale is always going to be complex, but the legal agreements are now in place so we can start delivering this transformational project.
He added: “It has the potential to provide Liverpool’s young people with the opportunity to be part of the UK’s booming film and TV industry, generating millions of pounds for the local economy and creating thousands of jobs for generations to come.”
“The new team at the Council are really transforming things and working together with them and the Combined Authority we’re going to be able to help kick-start delivering something pretty special.”
Liverpool John Moores University were originally going to play a big role in the project, with an education and training base for its digital media and creative arts students. However, the university pulled out in October. Liverpool Council say they will now plan to work with other education providers in the area.
Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor Liverpool City Region, said: “Our area has become a magnet for film and TV productions from around the world in recent years – making us the UK’s most filmed location outside of London. But I want to take our region to the next level, to stake our claim as the ‘Hollywood of the North’.”
He added: “The £17m we’re investing into both Littlewoods and The Depot will be central in turning that ambition into a reality – helping us to cater for every stage of the production process and creating new jobs and training opportunities for local people. I can’t wait to see work start on the project!”
The remaining anchor tenant for the site is the commercial film production company Twickenham Studios. It is hoped that when completed, the world-class film studios will create about 3,650 jobs and generate almost £200m for the local economy.
If you are looking for Liverpool serviced offices, please get in touch today.