Planning permission in principle granted for a new film studio in Bathgate

The decision was made at the council's Development Management Committee today (Wednesday 6 July).

Planning permission in principle is granted for 11,148 sqm of business, general industry and storage and distribution for use as film/studio/stage developments.

The site is on the eastern edge of the Pyramids Business Park. A range of users are currently operating within the Pyramids Business Park, including two film studios. The existing studios are located at the eastern end of the building. The studios have been used for the filming of T2 Trainspotting by Sony, Outlaw King by Netflix and Shetland by ITV. The BBC have also filmed the second series of Good Omens at the site.

The applicant was LR Hack GP Limited on Behalf of LR Edinburgh LP. London and Regional Property own the site.

A letter of support from Screen Scotland, which is the national agency for the growth of the film and TV sector, was received.

Chair of the Development Management Committee, Councillor Stuart Borrowman said: "The committee believe that the principle of a film studio development in this location acceptable. The proposal will deliver significant public benefits for West Lothian. It sounds like a hugely exciting development and a real coup for both Bathgate and West Lothian.

"Bathgate has a rich and proud history but this development could represent another fantastic chapter in the town's future."

He added:

"The applicant proposes to spend £25 million on expanding current film and tv studio facilities by 120,000 sq ft, as well as an additional £2million to upgrade the common parts and existing amenities within the Pyramids Business Park such as the café and gym.

"The one-off build and fit out of the planned new studios are predicted to create 105 local jobs. The proposed development is predicted to create 170 full time equivalent (FTE) jobs in West Lothian with £6.1m in annual wages, as well as 310 FTE jobs in Scotland."

Leader of West Lothian Council, Lawrence Fitzpatrick said: "The proposal will likely result in significant economic benefits through the creation of a substantial number of skilled jobs for West Lothian. 

"West Lothian has recently welcomed high profile and hugely successful entertainment providers and locations across West Lothian have been promoted across the globe.

"The market for film and TV production has significantly increased and the demand for suitable production space has also increased. The creative film and TV industry is growing and there is the potential for this to become a significant industry for Scotland. This proposal has to be viewed as an important opportunity for West Lothian."