MARV Studios plans to transform UK factory site into major new studio
MARV Studios has approached Derby City Council (DCC) with a plan to build a film studio and stunt training centre in the city.
Its production hub is expected to replace the former Aida Bliss factory in Chester Green, which was acquired by the council in 2018.
In addition to the film studio and training centre, the site will have a fitness and rehabilitation facility.
The anticipated £13m investment in the site is also expected to generate economic and social benefits of over £12m a year, including local economy and supply chain spend, job creation at the academy, and a significant increase in visitors to Derby.
Derby City Council’s Cabinet is expected to meet in June this year to discuss the proposals from MARV – whose blockbuster credits include The Kingsman, Layer Cake, Rocketman).
Proposals would see the former factory site sold to MARV to repurpose the historic building that has been redundant for nearly two decades.
Councillor Chris Poulter, leader of Derby City Council said: 'This is an immensely exciting prospect for Derby, and a very different suggested use for the Aida Bliss site.
'MARV Studios would be a fantastic media brand for us to attract to Derby, putting us on the map as a key player in the creative media sector. Of course, it would also contribute significantly to our aspirations to diversify the local economy and regenerate the city centre.'
'Any sale of the site to MARV would be subject to planning permission being secured, the council said.
'We’re keen to attract the best possible solution for the site, and any final decisions will of course be taken through the Council’s Cabinet to discuss,' said councillor Poulter.
'We will be arranging an opportunity for local residents to learn more about these proposals and will confirm the arrangements for this shortly,' he added.
Commenting on the acquisition, Damien Walters, a spokesperson from MARV Studios added: 'The academy will provide new studio space for MARV, the production company behind the Kingsman film franchise, and other leading international film and TV productions. In addition, it would accommodate Europe’s first stunt training academy, and also provide a National Centre of Excellence in areas of tumbling, trampolining and martial arts and Parkour.
'Core to delivering the Centre of Excellence will be the opportunity for a wide range of local people and organisations to use the facility – from school children in Derby to world-class, high-performance athletes – this will support grassroots and community sports, as well as elite athletes and Olympians.'
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