The Bottle Yard Studios, located two-hours south of London, in Bristol, could be heading for significant changes as the city council prepares to discuss its future, including the possibility of a sale.

Next week, Bristol City Council’s strategy committee will review options for the future of the Hengrove-based studio, which has become a leading production facility in the West of England. Known for its role in bolstering Bristol’s status as a UNESCO City of Film, The Bottle Yard has grown to be a cornerstone of the UK’s film and TV production landscape since its founding in 2010. With a decade of steady growth and a major expansion in 2022, the studio now plays a vital role in national production infrastructure.

Bristol has emerged as one of the UK’s top filming locations, thanks in large part to The Bottle Yard’s strong partnership with the Bristol Film Office. From primetime TV dramas to major feature films, the city’s unique character regularly shines on screen. According to the latest figures from the Bristol Film Office, The Bottle Yard Studios and on-location productions now contribute over £20 million annually to the city’s economy. 

Currently owned by the council, the facility has benefited from ongoing investment from Bristol City Council, the West of England Combined Authority, and various partners. However, with shifts in the TV and film market and changing models for local authority-owned studios, the council is now exploring a potential sale to attract new investment and drive further growth.

“The Bottle Yard Studios began as a regeneration project aimed at stimulating economic and social benefits that could benefit the city whilst providing vital new facilities for the regional film and TV sector,” said Councillor Tony Dyer, leader of the Bristol City Council and chair of the Strategy and Resources policy committee. “The success of the studios over the past 14 years is almost unparalleled with the facility returning on investment many times over through the creation of hundreds of jobs through the sector and being a primary stimulator of millions of pounds of inward investment to the city.” 

Laura Aviles, head of film for Bristol City Council and overseer of The Bottle Yard Studios, echoed the importance of this moment. “I’m pleased that the future of The Bottle Yard is being placed high on the agenda by Council leaders. There is absolutely no doubt that the Studios have had a transformative effect on the film and TV industry in Bristol and the West.” 

The Bottle Yard expanded two years ago, and the studio has since seen received recognition from UK and US producers, commissioners, and streamers, which Aviles believes has contributed to their growing reputation. “This success can be seen in the thriving workplace it provides for hundreds of crew and creative professionals each day, the tight-knit community of specialist companies resident on site, and a strong booking slate stretching into 2025 and 2026.”

The meeting to discuss The Bottle Yard Studios’ future will take place on Monday, September 16th. Whatever the outcome, one thing is clear: Bristol’s role as a key player in the UK’s film and TV industry is stronger than ever, and the next steps could shape the city’s production landscape for years to come.