'Space Project' Nears Completion

A new drama production hub based in Manchester has been dubbed 'The Space Project', giving an apt name to the 360,000 sq ft site that will feature 55,000 sq ft of dedicated studio space split into five purpose built, sound-proofed production stages.
The visual identity of the project has been developed by The Sharp Project team, Alastair Weir at PRP Architects and graphic designer Malcolm Garrett.
The site in West Gorton, which is ten minutes from Manchester city centre, is due to open in May this year. The building will also house construction workshops, prop stores and office space for short and long term production rentals.
Included in the development are four stages at 11,500 sq ft and a fifth at 9,000 sq ft, all air-conditioned, acoustically treated for sound separation, fitted with lighting rigs with I beams and 1GB fibre internet with 36 wireless access points.
The Space Project has been devised by Sue Woodward OBE, Project Director at The Sharp Project, who said: "It's important for the region's economy to capitalise on the UK's expanding drama production sector which, in part, is driven by tax breaks introduced by the government last April 2013. The Space Project creates a new offer for the north of England that will generate interest from producers and broadcasters both in the UK and overseas.
"With so much high spec production and back stage space available it seemed fitting to call the building The Space Project. To have a purpose built drama stage complex in Manchester is very exciting and will help satisfy the relentless demand for such facilities here in the UK."
Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: "Just a ten minute drive from its sister site on Oldham Road, The Space Project will add to Manchester's creative digital portfolio and provide an important addition to the successful production facilities at The Sharp Project. The new site will create employment opportunities in the sector for local people."
www.thespaceproject.tv
(IT/JP)