Plans to turn a redundant factory on the edge of Derby into a new movie studio have taken a big step forward after the people behind the plans completed the purchase of the building.
British stuntman, freerunner and ex-gymnast Damien Walters - along with production company MARV Studios - has completed the purchase of the 80,000 sq ft former Aida factory in City Road, Chester Green, from Derby City Council.
They want to turn the building into a new production house and Europe’s first dedicated stunt training facility.
In recent years MARV has worked on blockbusters such as Harry Brown, Layer Cake, Stardust, Kick-Ass and Rocketman, with stars such as Michael Caine, Daniel Craig, Robert de Niro and Helen Mirren.
The latest development follows 12 months of talks between the city council and a team of locally based consultants working with Mr Walters.
Temporary planning permission is already in place for part of the building and a detailed planning application will be submitted shortly to fully repurpose the site. Construction work would get under way by the end of the year.
The proposal would see Derby City Gymnastics Club and Gym relocate to the site from Chapel Street with the stunt training academy moving into the gym.
Three film studios are to be created within the older part of the building, which runs down the full length of City Road, and there would also be a new “world class” rehabilitation centre for elite sports participants and the wider stunt industry.
Damien Walters, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have concluded the purchase of this property, and I’d like to pay huge thanks to all the people working on both sides of the deal for all their hard work.
“We have already been rehearsing one major movie in the building and anticipate further rehearsal and production work to take place over the summer and into autumn, when we hope to secure planning to then deliver the first phase of the major building project at the beginning of next year.”
Councillor Nadine Peatfield, city council cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, culture and tourism, said: “We are working hard to build a really healthy, proud and vibrant Derby and this investment is great news.
“It’s a positive show of confidence in the city and its people. These are ambitious plans which, if approved, will bring welcome diversification to the city economy, and create exciting jobs and opportunities for the people of Derby.”
Russell Rigby, managing director of Rigby & Co, who brokered the property deal, said:
“We have been working hard for the past three years to try and secure the very best fit in terms of property, to enable Damien and the wider team to deliver something that once complete, will be truly jaw dropping.
“This level of investment in the mixed-use property will launch Derby onto the global map for film production, and stunt training.”
Damien Walters Limited was represented by Rigby & Co on the sale, working with Geldards LLP. Derby City Council were represented by Freeths.
The Aida Bliss site has stood empty for 20 years. There were advanced plans to turn it into new council housing before Marv Studios bosses held talks with the council last year.
It was previously reported that the business wants to invest £13 million in the facility.
