Shepperton Studios has made UK a global hub - CEO

Pinewood Group CEO David Conway said Shepperton Studios is 'buzzing'

The expansion of Shepperton Studios - now the biggest film studio in Europe - has made the UK a "global production hub" second only to Hollywood, according to its CEO.

Amazon and Netflix have taken up long-term residence in some of the 31 purpose-built stages at the newly expanded Surrey site.

David Conway, CEO of Pinewood Group which owns the Shepperton Studios, told BBC Radio Surrey that it is a success story for the whole country.

Mr Conway said Shepperton is "buzzing with people who are enthusiastic about working in the industry".

He said Netflix has begun production on its new series of Bridgerton at the Surrey site, while Amazon is shooting the third season of The Devil's Hour.

The talent of those production crews, plus UK tax incentives and its location in the "sweet spot" on the west of London are just some of the reasons behind Shepperton's success," he said.

"People want to walk in the footsteps of film legends and be on a site that has this heritage and history."

The studios have been involved in a number of big name projects including Mamma Mia!, Downton Abbey and Star Wars.

He said the expansion will support an additional 2,000 jobs in the area both on and off site.

He said: “People often think of the film directors and camera operators, but there’s also lighting, stunts, costumes, carpenters, electricians, engineers, caterers, gardeners – it’s a very long list."

'Fantastic opportunity'

Surrey County Council has also welcomed the "fantastic" news and says it has cemented Surrey's reputation as a "region for innovation, creativity and top class talent".

Council leader Tim Oliver said: "The fact that two of the largest content producers in the world have chosen Shepperton and Surrey for a global base speaks volumes for the amazing offer the county provides to businesses, large and small.”

Daniel Mouawad, chief executive of Spelthorne Borough Council, praised the studios for "inspiring and nurturing" local talent, particularly through the "fantastic opportunity" of their film and TV training courses.

Starting this summer Shepperton Studios will help fund five years of specialised industry courses exclusively for people who live in Spelthorne.