The future of The Bottle Yard Studios, the largest film and TV production facility in the west of England, is set to be debated in a crucial Bristol City Council meeting. Established 14 years ago, the studios, which have produced popular shows like Sherlock, The Outlaws, and Poldark, could soon be up for sale as part of plans to attract larger investment.
Bristol City Council, which owns the Hengrove-based studio, is exploring the possibility of selling the site to allow for “greater investment opportunities which cannot be pursued under council ownership.” The meeting to discuss these options is scheduled for Monday at 14:00 BST.
Tony Dyer, the leader of the council, emphasized the need to re-evaluate the studio’s future due to changes in the industry. He mentioned the evolving ownership models of studios across the UK and highlighted the opportunity to expand The Bottle Yard’s potential with new investments. “Now is the right time to consider the best future course for the facility,” Dyer said.
Film and TV production brings an estimated £20 million annually to Bristol’s economy, with The Bottle Yard Studios playing a key role. The facility was expanded in 2022 and has been instrumental in creating jobs and generating significant economic benefits for the region. Initially launched as a regeneration project, the studio has since become a hub for national and international productions.
Laura Aviles, the council’s head of film, noted the studio’s transformative impact on Bristol’s film and TV industry. “The studios have elevated their reputation among leading UK and US producers, commissioners, and streamers,” she said. Aviles expressed her hopes for further growth, stating, “I want to ensure The Bottle Yard continues to achieve its full potential into the future.”
The decision could mark a new chapter for the iconic studio, bringing additional investment to Bristol’s thriving creative sector.
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