Nearly two years after first being revealed, a planning application to build Medina Studios has been submitted to the Isle of Wight Council.
Based on 14 acres of land, at Kingston Marine Park, East Cowes, the studio is proposed to be the Island’s first screen-based media hub.
“Digitally advanced, and futureproofed, Medina Studios will provide the ability for productions to base themselves on the Island and take advantage of its wonderful locations”, plans state.
The development would consist of four permanent sound stages, two workshops, production offices and a car park, with space for 110 vehicles.
Duncan Heath, David Godfrey and Neil Blewett, who all have experience in the film and TV sectors, are behind proposals for the site.
Neil Blewett and Dave Godfrey, of Medina Studios. (Image: Newsquest)
Documents say the studio could act as “weather cover”, meaning shooting here will no longer be “weather-dependent, seasonal or inflexible.”
With 14 acres of frontage overlooking the River Medina, filmmakers say they are “uniquely positioned to offer marine filming services like no other facility can”.
As well as 400 jobs in film and production, it is estimated the studio could create an additional 250 industry ‘supply chain’ jobs and 150 construction jobs over the build period.
To produce the stages, Medina Studios says it is partnering with Serious Stages – a company which has worked with Disney, Netflix and Amazon to name a few.
A supporting statement reads: “With the expected growth in UK production, there has never been a better time for the Isle of Wight to claim its position on the UK and global screen based media landscape and attract significant production pipeline to the Island.
“Medina Studios, will provide and drive that much needed opportunity.”
Kingstone Marine Park is currently owned by the Isle of Wight Council and a decision to sell the land to Medina Studios was approved in November 2022.
At a meeting last month, it was revealed the sale had yet to go through but was progressing.
Documents say plans have the Isle of Wight Council’s full support.