CREATIVE HUBS BOOST HOUSING DEMAND IN LONDON

Research reveals that the UK’s media and entertainment sector could be worth £53 billion to the UK economy in 2033[1]. In 2024, the UK Government confirmed that the creative industries including film, TV and video, generates £125 billion a year, with the UK film sector already worth £1.36 billion, employing more than 195,000 people[2].
The creative industry in the UK, particularly in London, is a key part of the economy accounting for 5.2% of the GVA of the whole UK economy[3]. As the sector continues an upward trajectory, the housing market nearby these creative hubs are not far behind.
The increasing demand for homes near creative hubs, often leads to the enhancement of the local wider areas, including public spaces, roads and public transportation. In 2021, Enfield Council in partnership with Troubadour Theatres launched the Troubadour Meridian Water Studios creating up to 450 permanent jobs through the training academy and a new media and arts hub[4].
Joseph Antoniazzi, Director of Sales and Marketing at Barratt West London, comments: “In 2023-2024, 256,000 film, TV, radio and photography jobs were filled in the UK[5]. The last year alone has seen a few major productions including Wicked filmed at Sky Studios Elstree in Borehamwood, just outside North London. North London is home to quite a few major filming sites including London North Studios and Troubadour Meridian Water studios, not to mention the former Mill Hill Barracks, positioning North London and its environs as a major filming hub. Pinewood Studios in Slough is another well-known hub, with excellent connection into central London and close to Hayes Village – the people’s very own chocolate factory.”
London North Studios was launched in 2021, adding new interest to the North London area and the existing cinematic heritage left by Mill Hill Barracks, a known filming hub for Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. In addition, Batman Begins was filmed at the former National Institute for Medical Research which has been transformed into Barratt London’s Ridgeway Views in Mill Hill, North London.
Antoniazzi, continues: “As major productions increase, local housing markets are seeing a surge in young professionals and creatives seeking modern, accessible housing near their work hubs. Our developments in North London – Hendon Waterside, and Ridgeway Views where Batman Begins was filmed 20 years ago, offer both professionals and film fans a piece of the action.”
Ridgeway Views is an award-winning development uniquely set in 47 acres of greenery in the Mill Hill conservation area on the site of the former National Institute for Medical Research. Once complete, the development will comprise 527 new energy efficient homes.
Hendon Waterside is a large regeneration development set on the banks of the tranquil Welsh Harp Reservoir in NW9. The development comprises studios, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, two and three-bedroom duplexes, and a newly launched selection of four-bedroom townhouses – a rarity for Hendon.
Hayes Village is a regeneration scheme in West London, built on the former Nestlé factory. Due for overall completion in 2028, Hayes Village will provide 1,500 new homes, nine-acres of previously unused green space.