Maida Vale Studios to get revamp by new owners

A group backed by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer has revealed its plans to revamp Maida Vale Studios in west London.

The former BBC site was purchased by the partnership last year from the broadcaster after it was valued at around £10m.

The consultation states that the group will take a retro-fitting approach which means the works will prioritise energy-efficient and technological improvements while maintaining the existing building.

MVS Partnership LLP has not yet submitted a formal planning application to Westminster City Council.

Three new "state-of-the-art" studios are among the plans, with more composer suites and music rooms.

"The renovated studios will provide circa 42,000 sq ft of creative workspace within the existing building, with flexible and adaptable technology," the consultation website states.

A range of high-tech editing facilities are envisioned, with food and drink spaces available on-site for both staff and visitors.

According to the consultation, the refurbishment would deliver a venue of "national importance to UK and creative industries".

"This (sic) proposed upgrades will set new benchmarks for excellence in British film and music post-production, fostering the creation of new jobs, driving innovation, and promoting industry investment," it said.

Some external alterations are also planned, including more planting and seats.

Geoff Barraclough, a cabinet member and ward councillor for Maida Vale, said he was "delighted that Maida Vale Studios' long history will continue under new ownership".

He added: "As with any planning application, there will be plenty of details to examine before the scheme is approved and we will want to ensure that local residents don’t suffer during the building works."

Maida Vale Studios is a Grade-II listed building which the BBC converted it into studios in 1933, and since then has hosted a huge array of artists from The Beatles to Beyoncé and Sir Elton John.

In 2018 the BBC announced it was to move its live music hub to Stratford in east London, having previously described the Maida Vale site as "wholly unsuitable for the 21st century".

As well as Hans Zimmer, the group which purchased the studios includes film producers Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner and Mr Zimmer’s long-time business partner Steve Kofsky.

The online consultation will run until 11 October.

Two public exhibitions are also planned, on 1 and 2 October at The Amadeus Centre on Shirland Road.

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