Development designed by Michael Drain for Coolmore Estates will feature film studios, training facilities and actors' digs

A new development of film studios, educational facilities, hotels and student housing in County Durham has been given outline planning approval.

Easington District council gave the go ahead for the 144,500 sqm Centre for Creative Excellence. It will include film studios, facilities to train people for jobs in the industry and hotels to accommodate visiting actors.

The scheme is expected to generate 2,400 jobs in the area and construction costs are estimated at £200 million.

The scheme was designed by Michael Drain Architects for clients Coolmore Estates and Tolent Construction.

Construction on the five year project is expected to start in two years.

To comment on this design and other recent masterplans go to the Regenerate forum .