A major development is in the works for the film and television industry in the north east of England. The government confirmed a “trailblazer” devolution deal that will ultimately unlock up to $163 million towards the development of Crown Works Studios in Sunderland.

Fulwell Cain, a joint venture between Fulwell 73 and Cain International, has secured $616 million USD (converted from £450 million) in private investment to fund the construction. The development is expected to create around 8,500 jobs.

Crown Works Studios, described as “game-changing” for the region by Sunderland City Council leader Graeme Miller, will be built on former shipyard sites and is expected to be completed by 2027, subject to planning permission approval later this month.

Originally, developers requested up to $27 million per year for up to 10 years, with the amount decreasing as the studio turns a profit, to incentivize filmmakers to use the facility.

Following the devolution announcement, Leo Pearlman, managing partner at Fulwell 73, stated: “Crown Works Studios will help transform the city we love into a global hub for big-budget film and TV production. Our screen industries are world-leading, and with this backing, the UK, with the North East in its arsenal, can grow its capacity for film and high-end TV production. At the center of our plan is a pioneering training strategy that will transform lives and create new opportunities throughout the North East, kick starting a creative revolution that enables the region to play a leading role in our most exciting sector.”

Labour councillor Mr. Miller added that the project would “bring about benefits for generations to come.”

“We have worked hand in glove with Fulwell 73, the government and our regional partners to ensure that this scheme – which is game-changing for the whole of the North East – will move from vision to reality,” he said.

The investment in the studio was backed by industry figures, including the British Film Institute (BFI). Chief executive Ben Roberts said: “There is so much talent and untapped opportunity across the country, so we welcome this positive news today for the North East and the progress of Crown Works Studios, which has the potential to transform the region, creating jobs and supporting business.”

Alison Gwynn, chief executive of screen agency North East Screen, added: “The studios will provide the infrastructure we really need to continue the trajectory of attracting major big-budget features and, in the process, creating thousands more opportunities for the people and businesses of the North East.”

The devolution deal also includes:

• $34 million  to support the development of the Riverside Sunderland site.

• $13.6 million  to “accelerate progress on a Health Innovation Zone” in Newcastle.

• The creation of a coastal and rural taskforce.

• $79.3 million  for the maintenance and renewal of the Tyne and Wear Metro system over the next two years.

• A single funding pot for housing and regeneration.

• A new rail board to develop plans to improve train services.

From 2026, the North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NEMCA) will be able to set the overall strategic direction of the region’s Affordable Housing Programme, in partnership with Homes England.