Community News 4

Plans Submitted for Film and TV Studio

Plans have now been submitted for a major £263m film and TV studio complex in Stewartby. The scheme will see a former clay extraction works redeveloped into the largest newbuild film studio in the UK. The Home of Production (HOP) Studio is a joint venture between developer VERB and film studio operator Quartermaster. The former quarry, known as Quest Pit, opened in 1983 and was the last active brick pit in Bedfordshire. When it closed in 2008, it left redundant brownfield sites parts of the site up to 12 metres below natural ground level. The plans address this with units built on a platform, four metres above the water level.

The units centre around a restaurant and activity zone, linked to two lakes that have formed due to the natural flooding of extraction pits. A transport hub will connect the site to the local bus network with an arrival point for cyclists, pedestrians and coaches. New walking routes will line the site’s parameter.

The Home of Production (HOP) development aims to bring 1,400 jobs to the local area. A phased construction programme is due to start early 2023.

Marshall Aerospace Relocation to Cranfield

Marshall Aerospace has submitted its Outline Planning Application to Central Bedfordshire Council regarding its relocation from Cambridge to Cranfield Airport. The application follows two rounds of public consultation and a sound auralisation demonstration with residents living in and around Cranfield, including Marston Moreteyne. It sets out the company’s plans for a new purpose-built facility on the University Campus that has the potential to deliver a range of new employment opportunities and economic benefits to the region.

Subject to planning approval, Marshall Aerospace intends to be operational at Cranfield during 2026. Residents are encouraged to share their views with their local parish council and/or Central Bedfordshire Council planning officers.

Watch the World Cup in Elstow

The Red Lion, set on the High Street in Elstow, is showing every World Cup match right through to the final on 18 December.

The popular local is a Sizzling Pub & Grill offering a variety of menus every weekday from midday and from 11am on Saturdays and Sundays. From Caribbean-style Jerk Skewers to vegan Beyond Meat Burgers and build-your-own kids’ meals, there’s something for everyone to tuck into.

Tables can be booked online at

www.sizzlingpubs.co.uk

Do you have some village news to share?

Email jacqui@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Copy deadline for the January issue is 9th December.