The mayor of the North East Combined Authority has announced a £104m investment package aimed at supporting creative industries across the region.
Kim McGuinness said the funding will support a range of projects including new film studios, a major arena development and initiatives for grassroots venues and festivals.
More than £38m will go towards the development of Crown Works Studios in Sunderland, which is expected to become one of the largest film studio complexes in the north of England and create new production space for film and television projects.
A further £24m has been earmarked to prepare the site at Gateshead Quays for a proposed large-scale arena on the River Tyne, designed to host major music and entertainment events.
The wider programme also includes funding for small music venues, a regional festivals and events programme, and support for creatives and entrepreneurs developing careers in the sector.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: ‘We've heard leading voices from Sam Fender to Jade talk about their pride in their north east roots and the huge barriers working class young people from the north face when trying to make it in music and film.
'I said in my manifesto I'd change that, and here's the next big step – £104m backing both the inspirational big venues to the vital local space need for your first gig. Last week we announced the skills funding to help you learn on the job, this week we're backing more venues.
‘If you have a creative dream, you don't need London to succeed. We'll prove that.’
