Buckinghamshire Council Denies Film Studio Proposal Near A404 Dual Carriageway
Local authorities in Buckinghamshire have rejected plans to convert a former quarry adjacent to the A404 dual carriageway into a significant film production center, marking a notable stand against local opposition known as NIMBYism.
The proposed £750 million film studio, endorsed by renowned Hollywood figures including Avatar director James Cameron, aimed to transform the site into a thriving hub for film production, contributing to the growth of the UK’s creative sector.
Despite assurances of infrastructure enhancements and environmental commitments, such as funding for the congested Westhorpe roundabout and provisions for public transport, cycling paths, and green spaces, the council’s strategic sites committee turned down the proposal following a lengthy deliberation.
Local political figures, united in their support for the decision, hailed the move as a victory for community interests. This decision aligns with recent instances of challenging large-scale developments, such as the rejected data center in Oxfordshire and the scrapped Sphere venue project in London, reflecting the ongoing tension between development agendas and local concerns.
While the setback is disappointing for Marlow Film Studios and its chief executive Robert Laycock, who emphasized the project’s potential benefits, including significant investment and technological advancements in filmmaking, the council’s decision underscores the balancing act between economic growth and preserving natural landscapes and community interests.
