Union's warning as sale of film studio set to go ahead

Approval has been given for council officers to move forward with the proposed sale

The sale of a film and TV studio has moved a step closer after councillors were told it was "too late" to consider alternatives.

The council-owned Bottle Yard Studios in Hengrove, Bristol, could soon be bought by a private company on a 10-year lease, following a vote on Monday night to move forward with the sale.

Actors union Equity warned the sale only protected the studio for the next decade, and could be "damaging for Bristol".

But Bristol City Council said the move could create more jobs and help the studio thrive.

The facility is a leading film and TV studio facility in the West of England and is a cornerstone of Bristol’s Unesco City of Film designation.

A separate amendment to bring sale plans back for scrutiny, and a democratic vote once they are decided upon, was also agreed unanimously.

Programmes including the award-winning Sherlock were made by The Bottle Yard Studios

Equity has been leading a campaign against the sale over fears it will damage the thriving local sector and impact jobs.

Equity president Lynda Rooke said the union is “pleased that councillors will retain oversight and control of any sale".

However, she added they were "disappointed" by their vote not to pause the sale and reconsider alternative ownership models, such as a joint venture.

“The studios are a culturally important local asset but under the current sale terms, the use of the space as a film studio will only be protected for the next ten years," she said.

"The council’s decision not to delay and allow time to consider all options for its future could end up being incredibly damaging down the line."

However, council leader Tony Dyer said the move will “secure the long term future" of the facility, benefiting the film and television industry and the wider city.

“Despite the studios’ success, the current ownership model means it has hit a glass ceiling," he said.

“Like all regeneration projects, a time will always come when it’s sensible for the local authority to seek options for enabling further growth to expand the benefits available to the city.

"It’s clear that by unlocking the potential of private investment, that potential has a greater chance of being realised and the opportunity for more jobs, economic returns for the city, and bigger and larger Bristol productions appearing on our screens."

Councillors gave authorisation for negotiation of the final terms of contract, and promised to consult with all relevant trade unions including those representing freelance workers.