New stages under construction at Elstree Studios

The base of the structures are now in place on the site of the former Big Brother House, next door to the George Lucas Stage.

The new stages will help provide space to shoot new productions with Elstree Studios having to turn away numerous opportunities in recent years to due to a lack of space.

Borehamwood resident Duncan Williams, who took the photos of the latest building project, said: "The stages are springing up fast and it's good news for the Borehamwood area as with this construction comes plenty of new work.

"The unique thing about Elstree Studios is that it is owned by Hertsmere Borough Council which means that as more production revenue is brought in from the film industry, it eventually filters back into the community.

"And who knows what great and memorable films might be shot inside these buildings in the future?"

Credit: Duncan Williams

The studios expansion in Borehamwood is costing £15.6 million with part-funding of £6 million being provided by a Getting Building Fund investment from the government and Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership.

The rest of the money is being provided by Hertsmere Borough Council. As part of the deal, it has been agreed that £100,000 per year from the rental income received by the council from the studios will be invested locally into creative industries, including media and creative enterprise and initiatives, equivalent to 30 per cent of the project's profits over the project's life.

Elstree Studios from Shenley Road. Credit: Elstree Studios

Council leader and chairman of Elstree Studios, Morris Bright, said previously: "Elstree Studios has been the beating heart of our borough for nearly 100 years. Alongside the council's own funding commitment, this agreement with Herts LEP, means we have secured the future of the studios for generations to come.

"Not only is the ongoing vitality of the studios secured, this deal represents a huge opportunity for our residents, businesses and the UK creative sector.

"The creation of two new soundstages and ancillary workshops will result in 800 new jobs, plus 100 new learner and apprenticeship opportunities, at a time when many local people are facing uncertain or bleak employment prospects because of the ongoing impact of the coronavirus pandemic."

Cllr Morris Bright at Elstree Studios

Cllr Bright added: "It also means that income received by the council from the studios can continue to be used to fund vital day-to-day services, such as parks, waste and recycling collection, community grants and street cleaning.

"While Hertsmere and the country as a whole faces unprecedented economic and social challenges, this project and the construction of the multi-million pound Sky Studios Elstree facility down the road, is a ray of light for us all."

CGI of the Sky Studios development between Rowley Lane and the A1

The development of Sky Studios Elstree off the A1 in Borehamwood is also coming along at pace. Several structures are now in place with the studios scheduled to open sometime in 2022.