Major boost for Hertfordshire’s screen sector as Elstree and Borehamwood are at the centre of a wave of investment, innovation, and international collaboration.

Three key developments are set to significantly enhance the region’s creative landscape, reinforcing its status as a global hub for film and television production. 

These include the expansion of world-class facilities at Sky Studios Elstree, the development of Fairbanks Studios, and MBS Group's partnership with Elstree Studios. The developments will not only bring inward investment but also create jobs, skills, and supply chain opportunities across the county. 

Fairbanks Studios Elstree: Breathing New Life into a Historic Site
The former BBC Elstree Centre, long associated with EastEnders, is being redeveloped into Fairbanks Studios Elstree by Oxygen Studios in partnership with AXA IM Alts. With planning permission now granted, the site will feature five state-of-the-art soundstages and support facilities, launching in late 2027 or early 2028.

As the UK’s second-oldest film studio, this redevelopment honours Elstree’s legacy while embracing the future of high-end production. AXA IM Alts for the redevelopment of approximately 50% of the BBC Elstree Centre TV and film studio.

Sky Studios Elstree: Expanding for Global Impact
Sky Studios Elstree is also scaling up, with approval for 10 new stages across a 65-acre site. The expansion will add 470,000 sq. ft. of stage space, create over 2,000 jobs, and attract an estimated £2 billion in production investment over five years.

Since opening in 2022, the studio has hosted major productions including Wicked, Paddington in Peru, and Jurassic World: Rebirth, showcasing Hertfordshire’s capacity to support world-class storytelling.

Elstree Studios and MBS Group: A Strategic Global Partnership
As Elstree Studios celebrates its centenary, it has entered a new partnership with The MBS Group - the world’s largest studio operator and production equipment provider.

MBS will now operate and service the historic studio campus, bringing its global expertise to Hertfordshire. With operations across 50 studio campuses in eight countries, MBS supports nearly 1,000 high-end productions annually.

Driving Skills, Community and Collaboration
Behind the scenes, Hertfordshire Futures and our Hertfordshire Film Office have played a key role in supporting these developments. From facilitating planning and partnerships to nurturing talent and networks, our involvement has helped ensure these projects are rooted in local opportunity.

Sky Studios has worked closely with Hertfordshire Futures and Estu on our highly successful Create Growth Programme, as well as broader skills initiatives including skills bootcamps and the Hertfordshire Film and TV Skills Forum.

Oxygen Studios and Fairbanks have also built strong relationships with the University of Hertfordshire and Elstree Screen Arts Academy, thanks to introductions made by the Film Office. Both studios are active members of the Elstree Studios Centenary Board, further embedding them in the region’s creative ecosystem.

Adam Morley, Creative Sector Lead at Hertfordshire Futures, said: “These announcements underline Hertfordshire’s position as one of the most important global centres for film and TV. Hertfordshire Film Office is proud to play its part in supporting these developments - from planning through to opening - ensuring that productions of all scales can thrive here.

"This is a hugely positive moment for the sector, and we look forward to welcoming more international and UK productions to Hertfordshire.”

As a one-stop shop for location services, permitting, and local crew and facilities, HFO helps streamline the production process while promoting Hertfordshire as a world-class filming destination.

By connecting industry with local authorities, businesses, and talent, HFO ensures that the benefits of screen sector growth are felt across the region. Visit hertfordshirefilmoffice.co.uk to learn more.