The mastermind behind the global television phenomenon Peaky Blinders, Steven Knight, has unveiled spectacular plans to supercharge Birmingham's film industry with a dramatic expansion of his Digbeth Loc Studios.
Transforming Birmingham into Britain's Hollywood
In an exclusive revelation, Knight confirmed that the already impressive studio complex will undergo a massive transformation, growing from seven sound stages to an astonishing twenty. This ambitious development positions Birmingham to compete directly with London as the UK's premier filming destination.
The expansion represents one of the most significant investments in the British creative industry outside the capital, signalling a dramatic shift in the regional production landscape.
Economic Boom: Thousands of New Opportunities
The ripple effects of this development are extraordinary:
- Creation of approximately 2,000 permanent jobs across various sectors
- Significant opportunities for local talent and businesses
- Positioning Birmingham as a global production hub
- Attracting major international film and television projects
Knight emphasised his commitment to local employment, stating that the development will provide "jobs for people in Birmingham, making things for the world."
From Car Park to Creative Powerhouse
The transformation of the Digbeth area continues at a breathtaking pace. What began as a single studio in a former carpark has evolved into a creative empire that includes:
- The original Digbeth Loc Studios facility
- The upcoming BBC drama This Town set in 1980s Birmingham
- Multiple new sound stages under construction
- Plans for additional supporting facilities and infrastructure
A Personal Mission for Birmingham's Renaissance
For Knight, this project represents more than just business—it's a passionate mission to restore Birmingham's cultural and economic prominence. Having grown up in the city during its industrial heyday, he envisions a new creative golden age.
"We're bringing it back," Knight declared with evident pride. "We're bringing the world to Birmingham and showing them what this city can do."
The expansion comes as Birmingham solidifies its reputation as a serious competitor to traditional production centres, offering world-class facilities with the distinctive character that only the Second City can provide.
