The approval by the Hounslow Council Planning Committee for the redevelopment of Gillette Corner marks a significant milestone in the transformation of this historic site into a cutting-edge film production campus.
This decision is poised to substantially impact the property and media production sectors, particularly in London and the Southeast, where there is a pressing demand for high-quality production spaces.
The redevelopment plan involves a comprehensive overhaul of the Gillette Building and its surrounding structures at 101 Syon Lane, Isleworth. The proposal includes the demolition of several outdated buildings, such as the Old Mould shop, Caxton Building, and Vanmatic Building, while preserving and refurbishing key heritage structures like the Gillette Building, IPF Building, and Natwest Building. This approach ensures that the site’s rich historical value is maintained while adapting it to meet modern production needs.
Gensler, a renowned global architecture and design firm, has been appointed to spearhead the project. With extensive experience in designing film studios and heritage buildings, Gensler’s involvement underscores the project’s ambition to blend historical preservation with state-of-the-art facilities. The redevelopment will see the creation of new buildings dedicated to virtual production, film, and digital content creation, including sound stages, offices, and workshops. These facilities are designed to cater to the burgeoning demand for digital content production, addressing the estimated need for 2.3 million square feet of new sound stage space across the UK by 2033.
The strategic location of the Gillette site, at the western end of the historic Golden Mile, offers a unique opportunity to establish a media production hub that leverages the site’s heritage while contributing to the local economy. The plans include the development of a public café and integrating renewable energy infrastructure, cycle and car parking, and waste storage solutions, ensuring the site is both sustainable and accessible.
This redevelopment presents a compelling case study in balancing heritage conservation with modern development needs. The project not only revitalises a landmark site but also aligns with broader trends in the property market, which are increasing emphasis on sustainable development and adaptive reuse of historical buildings.
The approval of the Gillette Corner redevelopment is a forward-thinking move that promises to enhance the media production landscape in the UK. It highlights the potential for innovative property development to drive economic growth while preserving cultural heritage, setting a precedent for future regional projects.
We covered the proposals here.
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