Production Park: Yorkshire site where Adolescence was filmed to expand in move to 'turbocharge' growth
The Yorkshire stage and screen production campus where award-winning Netflix hit Adolescence was filmed is to expand as it looks to “turbocharge” its growth.
Production Park, in South Kirkby, near Pontefract, is also used by musicians such as Coldplay, Metallica and Lady Gaga to rehearse for tours.
It has received planning approval for the next phase of its expansion which will increase its footprint to nearly 30 acres and will allow it to attract more large-scale stage and screen productions.
The changes will add more than 70,000 sq ft of commercial space, including two new studios, additional space for supply-chain vendors, and expanded training and education facilities.
A spokesperson said: “The new purpose-built studios will strengthen Production Park’s offer to live entertainment, TV and film clients.
“This latest expansion will enable more major productions to rehearse and to film in Yorkshire, creating new opportunities for collaboration, training and innovation.
"The area will feature tenant spaces, a training and performance centre, and additional teaching space for the Academy of Live Technology, Production Park’s on-campus higher education institution dedicated to training the next generation of industry professionals.”
The site began as a single rehearsal space for touring musicians but has evolved into a collection of state-of-the-art production facilities which serve global artists, broadcasters and brands.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire said: “Production Park is already a magnetic creative cluster that attracts world-class talent and major productions. It’s one of a kind nationally, and at the forefront of exciting new developments in the creative industries.
"Adding new studios, commercial space and training facilities will turbocharge its ability to support local businesses, boost skills, create jobs, and drive growth.”
Lee Brooks, CEO of Production Park said: “This expansion marks an important next phase for Production Park as we continue to thoughtfully widen opportunities for industry to produce, educate and connect here.
"For over 20 years we’ve built an environment and culture that understands the process and value of the stage and screen industries.
"We’ve seen award-winning productions created on this campus, and watched students go on to build international careers.
"We are united in our continued vision to connect world-class innovators, creators and producers in a space that supports incredible work for global audiences.”
Adam Davis, CEO of TAIT and anchor resident at Production Park, said: “TAIT’s presence on Production Park provides design, engineering, manufacturing, integration, project management, training and support for our global clients.
"Production Park isn’t just a global location for us; it’s a vibrant community we’re proud to be part of. We’re invested at every level, from employing Academy of Live Technology graduates, to supporting clients rehearsing on site, to collaborating on research that shapes the future of live experiences. We’re delighted to play our part in the Park’s continued growth.”
Councillor Jack Hemingway, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said: “Production Park’s reputation in the industry is second to none in Europe. And it’s fantastic to have a locally based business at the very top of its game. Expanding its facilities can bring even more business into our district, which means more jobs and investment locally.”