Plan lodged for Nenagh film studio
The planning application for a major film and TV studio development proposed for the outskirts of Nenagh has been submitted to Tipperary Co Council.
Silver Rock Studios Ltd is seeking permission to redevelop the old Rorer pharmaceutical factory at Lisbunny Industrial Estate. The plan involves demolition of elements of the industrial building and construction of extensions to adapt the existing factory unit for film production.
Aspects of the plan include construction of new two-storey offices to the front of the factory building and a two-storey replacement extension for actor preparation and dressing areas. Extensions to the northeast side of the factory building are to accomodate three film sound stages.
Advertising signage, landscaping and boundary treatments, an ESB substation, solar panels and general site access improvements, including construction of footpaths and cycle paths, are included in the plan. Permission is furthermore sought for modified vehicular entrances to a revised car park with security control cabin (entrance 1), to actor preparation area (entrance 2) and to truck entrance and associated parking area (entrance 3).
Launched at a press conference at the Abbey Court Hotel last month, Silver Rock president and founder Andy Egan said the planned development would involve 250 jobs during the construction phase. Some 300 full-time jobs could be created when the studio opens, and potentially twice that number depending on the work it attracts.
Subject to planning, Mr Egan, who grew up in Coolbawn, said construction could begin before Christmas with a view to having the studio open next summer. Representing investment of up to €30 million, the development centres on a 4.47-hectare site at Lisbunny where the former Rorer factory, which dates from the 1980s, is presently sited.
In correspondence with the council, planning and development consultants Simon Clear & Associates said the overall concept of the plan is to redevelop the disused factory as “high-end TV and film studios to include bespoke sound stages to an international standard. New accommodation will include office spaces, costume, hair and make-up areas and support facilities including construction workshops, prop-houses, etc.”
The applicant's agent said Silver Rock Studios would employ an experienced film management team to ensure the production team have the power supply required for film-making, a gantry system capable of carrying heavy loads, heat, large data and wi-fi capacity, a quality phone system, and any other requirements they might need.
Three sound stages are proposed. These were described as “black box” structures within the building with very high acoustic values. The sound stages would be typically 15m+ to ceiling with accessible gantries above. The external height dimensions would be typically in excess of 23m.
“These high acoustic black boxes are critical for film production,” the council was informed. “Studio buildings and sound stages are not open to the general public and there are no provisions for live audiences in the studio facilities.”
A series of reports and drawings were submitted to the council in support of the planning application. A decision is due from the council by October 31.