EastEnders actor reopens historic film facility

Rudolph Walker joined centenary celebrations of Elstree Studios as he opened renovated sound stages

BBC EastEnders actor Rudolph Walker has reopened the sound stages where movies such as Star Wars and Indiana Jones were filmed.

Three huge production spaces at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire had been closed for renovation after the roofs were deemed dangerous.

As well as being a production base for blockbuster films, Netflix TV series The Crown was filmed there.

Elstree Studios is celebrating its 100th anniversary after a Hollywood producer joined a British film producer to announce the facility in 1925.

Walker, who has filmed numerous productions at Elstree, near Borehamwood, during his 60-year acting career, cut the ceremonial ribbon.

A set for Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back was constructed at Elstree Studios, which are now owned by Hertsmere Borough Council

A sound stage is a huge sound-proofed room where film sets can be built and scenes shot.

Stages 7, 8 and 9 at Elstree form a combined studio space of more than 20,000 square feet.

Over its 60-year history, Stage 7 has seen productions such as Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, Superman IV and The Crown.

Jabba the Hutt's famous throne room scene from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi was filmed on Stage 8, while Stage 9 is where Jack Nicholson's famous door-axing scene in The Shining was filmed.

Stage 7 has hosted movies including Superman, Indiana Jones and TV series The Crown

Rebecca Hawkes, head of studios at Elstree, said: "These stages have hosted some of the most famous creations in film and TV history and the reopening sets the scene for this legacy to continue."

Hertsmere Borough Council, which owns the studios, recently approved £1.4m of investment for the renovation of the underground car park below these three stages.

It comes after work was completed to remove asbestos and remedy issues with the use of Raac (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete).

Elstree Studios recently signed an agreement with the MBS Group, the world's largest studio operator

Leader of the council, Jeremy Newmark, said: "Stages 7, 8 and 9 coming back into play and this additional investment gives us excellent flexibility and versatility.

"The timing couldn't be more perfect as we celebrate 100 years of film-making that has touched millions of people's lives across the world, all produced in Borehamwood."