A television production company has signed a new deal to stay at Elstree Studios.

BBC Studioworks, which makes content for the likes of the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, and Sky, is also investing in the Borehamwood site.

The company has extended its lease meaning it will continue to operate stages 8 and 9 at Elstree Studios until March 2029. BBC Studioworks will also take full control of George Lucas Stage Two until December 2024.

Along with the new deal, improvements earmarked for the studios include dressing room refurbishments, redecoration of facilities, and an intention to make the stages it operates net zero by 2030.

Borehamwood Times: Elstree StudiosElstree Studios

Jon Noakes, commercial director at BBC Studioworks, said: “We’ve enjoyed nine fantastic years at Elstree Studios, and with the raft of planned improvements, we’re committed to providing a first-class customer experience here for years to come.

“We’re confident the investment being made will significantly upgrade and modernise the site ensuring it remains a market-leading facility in which to produce award-winning TV.”

Among the shows BBC Studioworks produces at Elstree Studios is Strictly Come Dancing, Pointless, The Chase, and The Voice.  

Borehamwood Times: Credit: BBC/PACredit: BBC/PA

Elstree Studios acting managing director, Chris Denmead, said: “This extended agreement is great news for Elstree, reconfirming our commitment to terrestrial TV and having a mixture of formats on the site.

“The long-term commitment from both sides gives Elstree the ability to invest in and modernise its facilities whilst concentrating on sustainable solutions and maintaining its position as a market leading facility.”

Earlier this summer, two new stages opened at Elstree Studios in a £15.6 million investment.

The stages have been named ‘Platinum Stages’ following a competition with Universal Production Services moving in.

Borehamwood Times: Elstree Studios board chairman and leader of Hertsmere Borough Council Morris Bright, right, with film historian Paul WelshElstree Studios board chairman and leader of Hertsmere Borough Council Morris Bright, right, with film historian Paul Welsh

The project has been part-funded by Hertsmere Borough Council, which owns the studios, and the government's Getting Building Fund via the Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership.

As part of the deal, £100,000 per year from the rental income received by the council will be invested locally into creative industries, including local media and creative enterprise and initiatives.