Government ready to support Crown Works

THE Government is “determined” to support the development of Sunderland’s Crown Works Studios after a major investor pulled out, a senior Labour minister has pledged.

- DANIEL HOLLAND

Culture secretary Lisa Nandy told MPs yesterday that her department was working alongside local leaders, as they search for new funding for the flagship film and TV studios project.

It emerged on Monday that investment firm Cain International, who had led the original plans in a joint venture with Fulwell Entertainment, have withdrawn from the £450m vision to build the “world class” production complex on the banks of the River Wear in Pallion.

Sunderland City Council and the North East Combined Authority are now seeking new investors, but have said they “remain confident” and expect to have new money in place this year.

Sunderland Central MP Lewis Atkinson asked Ms Nandy how the Government's new creative industries strategy, which specifically highlights the “game-changing plans for film production in Sunderland”, would ensure the Pallion development is delivered.