Film studio expansion plans submitted

Hartlepool Council has applied to expand Northern Studios and build a film and TV production village

Planning applications to expand a film and TV production village have been submitted.

It is hoped the expansion of Northern Studios in Hartlepool and creation the Screen Industries Production Village will bolster the north-east of England's film-making sector.

The development would see a number of derelict buildings surrounding Northern Studios brought back into use to create pre and post production facilities.

Subject to planning permission, work is likely to begin in a matter of months, Hartlepool Borough Council said.

The town already has a foundation to build on having been used to produce feature film Jackdaw, the BBC comedy Smoggie Queens and ITV dramas.

North East Screen chief executive Alison Gwynn said the development of the studios will allow the region to attract more productions.

"The North East continues to be the fastest growing region for TV and film, and projects like this will only strengthen our ability to host global productions," she said.