MasterChef to gobble up Birmingham’s Banana Warehouse
The relocation of hit BBC show MasterChef to Birmingham has moved closer after plans for a new state-of-the-art TV studio in Digbeth were given the green light by Birmingham City Council.
EG revealed last February that Homes England had agreed a deal with Digbeth Loc – a joint venture between Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight and developer Stanhope – to bring the cooking show to the city.
MasterChef’s new home, featuring a sound stage, smaller studios, pre- and post-filming areas, and an outdoor filming area, will be the former Banana Warehouse located at the Warwick Bar site next to the Grand Union Canal.
The relocation of hit BBC show MasterChef to Birmingham has moved closer after plans for a new state-of-the-art TV studio in Digbeth were given the green light by Birmingham City Council.
EG revealed last February that Homes England had agreed a deal with Digbeth Loc – a joint venture between Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight and developer Stanhope – to bring the cooking show to the city.
MasterChef’s new home, featuring a sound stage, smaller studios, pre- and post-filming areas, and an outdoor filming area, will be the former Banana Warehouse located at the Warwick Bar site next to the Grand Union Canal.
The lease on MasterChef‘s existing premises at Three Mills Studios, in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, E3, expires this year.
Birmingham City Council leader Ian Ward said: “The BBC decision to switch MasterChef production to Birmingham is a huge vote of confidence in our creative sector and planning consent for the new studio in Digbeth is the next important step in this exciting project.”
He added: “With the coming of HS2, the Midland Metro extension, the MasterChef move and new BBC HQ, our vision for Digbeth is to build on established creative businesses, attracting and encouraging new ones, while developing a vibrant urban community with entertainment, living and cultural opportunities.”
The new studio, close to HS2 and the proposed new BBC Birmingham HQ at Typhoo Wharf, will be part of a wider masterplan for the Warwick Bar area of Digbeth, which is intended to incorporate a range of uses including film and TV studios, workspace, hospitality and residential.
Avison Young advised on planning.
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Image © K4
