A UK/Irish consortium has selected a 25-acre site in the Lough Sheever Corporate Park in Mullingar as the location to build a film and television studio campus. It is understood that planning permission will be submitted shortly.
The company says the project has the potential to generate 300 construction jobs. Once completed, the studio could employ up to 350 film crew.
If planning permission is approved, phase one of the studio development is expected to be fully operational within 12 months.
The growing demand for new film and television content means that there is a global shortage of studio space.
Whilst Ireland has three relatively large studio facilities (Ardmore, Troy and Ashford), demand for these studios is high, with studio projects often selecting other international locations when the availability of these existing facilities has been limited.
The sector currently supports 12,000 jobs in Ireland, with significant additional expansion opportunities across all parts of the industry anticipated in the coming year.
The proposal is coming from a strong consortium, with experts of the film industry leading the way. They have a background in filming at places like Universal Pictures, Disney and Troy Studios.
The Lough Sheever site at Robinstown, Mullingar is an ideal location, with a fine mix of accommodation, catering and business services. With Dublin only 50 minutes away and the M4 within easy access, it offers big advantages. A significant employment boost is good news for the town and the project has the potential to be one of the most exciting developments in Mullingar in many years.
ENTHUSIASTIC WELCOME
Mullingar was chosen as the location despite serious competition from around the country. The land is owned by Kelbuild Ltd, a building contracting firm which has over 30 years experience.
The new studio would bring considerable benefits to the local Mullingar economy and help Ireland meet the demands of the biggest global productions. It’s a considerable project by any standards and when completed, Mullingar will certainly be to the forefront as the country becomes a leading force in the film industry.
The provision of 300 construction jobs is a real fillip and it is expected that phase one of the project will begin in the second half of next year, with initial plans to fully occupy the new buildings at the end of 2024.
Both local Junior Ministers, Peter Burke, TD and Robert Troy, TD have given an enthusiastic welcome to the project, stressing the impact it could have on the town and indeed the Midlands region, with the sector such a strong and recognised employer.
Westmeath County Council have been engaging with the company and this should ensure all the requirements are met regarding the securing of planning permission at the site.
