Plans for a TV studio at Thames Valley Science Park go before councillors on June 14 with a recommendation for approval.
Wokingham Borough’s planning committee will consider the proposal by the University of Reading for a 4,591 sq m building, split between a main studio area, a workshop for set production, an accommodation block for actors and presenters and an area for public use.
The university-owned science park already has permission to extend its car park by 287 spaces to a total of 544.
Darren Browne, commercial director of the University of Reading, said: “Due to the rise of new digital streaming services and the continued attraction of the UK as a location for filming and post-production work, demand for studio space has been increasing.
“This project is perfectly suited to help provide additional space for TV productions, alongside the separate Shinfield Studios film complex.
“This studio would support 150 full time equivalent roles involved in the running of the studios, such as engineers, electricians and office staff, as well as production roles including camera operators, sound engineers and lighting specialists, and for audience handling, such as catering and security
“It would also present opportunities for students at the University of Reading and elsewhere to get hands-on experience of the television industry.”
In March the council approved plans by Shinfield Studios for temporary permission for 14,800 sq m of studios, a forerunner to its more ambitious plan which is yet to go before planners.
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