The Space Project to double in size with £14m funding

A £14m investment package to drive expansion at The Space Project in Manchester has been given the go-ahead.

Manchester City Council greenlit an investment boost that, subject to planning, would see the West Gorton-based TV production hub double in size by 2017.

The phase two proposal includes the construction of almost 90,000 sq ft of new production space, including a 30,000 sq ft stage and over 6,000 sq ft of offices.

If approved, the expansion would also add a further 10,000 sq ft for set construction workshops and new business units offering 40,000 sq ft.

The Space Project’s founder, Susan Woodward, said: “Demand for production space is growing rapidly.

“Building phase two will help satisfy current and future demand and importantly allow us to accommodate essential supply chain businesses in a production hub which will develop local job opportunities and drive further growth in the sector.”

The Armstrong Mill complex, located next to The Space Project, was acquired by the city council in 2014 and is due to be fully demolished this month. Once cleared, the site will be incorporated into The Space Project.

City council leader Sir Richard Leese commented: “The delivery of this next phase will ensure that Manchester and The Space Project stay ahead of the curve against competing facilities, which will enable us to capture future opportunities to locate TV and drama productions in Greater Manchester.

“This will help create a further 275 jobs and boost the local economy by nearly £10m a year.”

Since its launch in October 2014, The Space Project’s facilities have been used to produce a number of TV shows, including the BBC Two drama Cradle to Grave, CBBC’s World’s End and Dragons’ Den.

Following the funding approval, a planning application is expected to be submitted in April.

Last month, new data shed light on the economic impact of The Space Project and its sister hub, The Sharp Project.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →