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A consortium, which includes Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer, has purchased the renowned music studios in London’s Maida Vale previously used by The Beatles and David Bowie.
The group, consisting of Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner, co-chairs of film producer Working Title, intends to convert the complex into new studios and an educational facility for musicians, operating as a not-for-profit entity.
The new owners, along with Zimmer’s business partner Steven Kofsky, have committed to a multi-million pound renovation plan, as well as local job creation, innovation, and investment. Although the exact purchase price was not disclosed, the complex was valued at around £10 million.
Lorna Clarke, director of music at the BBC, acknowledged the historical and cultural significance of the building, stating that it had played a vital role in the BBC’s history.
The BBC will relocate its facilities to new studios being developed in Stratford, East London.
The funds raised from the sale are relatively small compared to the BBC’s annual budget derived from the licence fee and revenues generated by the sale of its productions worldwide.
Maida Vale Studios, which houses seven music and radio studios, has been utilized by the BBC since 1933. Notable artists such as Led Zeppelin and Dusty Springfield have also recorded in the building. It was famously home to John Peel’s BBC Radio 1 show and the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, known for the iconic Doctor Who theme tune.
In a joint statement, Bevan and Fellner expressed their admiration for the artistic excellence associated with Maida Vale Studios over the years. They highlighted its role in nurturing new talent and hosting legendary musicians.
Zimmer, renowned for composing music for blockbuster movies like The Lion King and Pirates of the Caribbean, reminisced about his early days working for the BBC at Maida Vale Studios 45 years ago and paid tribute to its support.
The building was originally built in 1909 as a roller-skating venue before being repurposed by the BBC. In 2020, it was granted Grade-II listed status, a decision opposed by the BBC. The listing necessitates that the new owners renovate behind the existing Edwardian facade. The new site will cater to classical, pop, and choral music, as well as the BBC Performing Groups’ requirements. It will also host music sessions and concerts for stations like Radio 1 and Radio 3.
The new BBC music studios in Stratford are expected to open in late 2025 and will contribute to the development of a new creative hub in London called East Bank, which will also include institutions like the V&A, Sadler’s Wells, UCL, and UAL’s London College of Fashion.
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