Stars Come Out To Support Riverside Studios

Simon Callow and Jo Brand in favour of redevelopment

Stars of British theatre and television have given their support to the redevelopment of Hammersmith's famous Riverside Studios following the submission of a planning application to Hammersmith and Fulham Council.

Among the celebrities supporting Riverside Studios are comedian Jo Brand, who says: " Like me, it is looking slightly frayed around the edges and become a bit decrepit. This is why I was so pleased to hear about, and see the plans for redevelopment."

Actor Simon Callow also offers his support, saying: "Riverside has been a powerhouse of theatrical energy, generating an astonishing range of new work, revitalising classics, and acting as host to some of the greatest performers in the world. Its location is superb. There's nothing like it in London, nor anywhere else that I know of. I look forward to a wonderful future for it."

In September, London Developer Mount Anvil, working in conjunction with A2 Dominion, submitted the application to comprehensively redevelop Riverside Studios and the adjacent Queen’s Wharf building as part of a combined mixed-use development.

You can read full details of the application here.

William Burdett-Coutts, Artistic Director of Riverside Studios says: "Riverside Studios has had an incredible history from water pump factory, to film studios, to being one of the original BBC TV Studios, to Arts Centre and Television Facility.

"Over its time its seen Daleks and Dr Who, Dixon of Dock Green, Terry & June, Hancock’s Half Hour, Sean Connery playing Checkhov, Helen Mirren, Beckett, Dario Fo, TFI Friday, Top of the Pops, countless world films and an incredible array of international theatre and dance like the recent incredible hit Mies Julie from South Africa. It’s always been at the centre of innovation where the first test transmissions for colour television were unveiled by the Queen Mother and latterly the trials for 3D television.

"But the building is old and badly needs redevelopment. The opportunity provided by Mount Anvil and A2 Dominion will see a new building which will allow the Riverside Trust an exciting future.

"This will embrace new facilities and ways of taking arts and entertainment to the public, whilst providing a wonderful asset to the people of Hammersmith. We aim to make this London’s Digital Media & Arts Centre of the future."

Further details are contained in a Riverside Studios Newsletter and local residents are being invited to give their feedback on the scheme either by calling a freephone number 0800 298 7040 or emailing feedback@consultation-online.co.uk

October 11, 2013