Hans Zimmer Group unveils Maida Vale Studios renovation plans

Coldplay is one of many bands that have performed in the studio for nearly 90 years.

Chris Martin of Coldplay on the BBC live in the studios in 2005 — Coldplay is one of many bands that have performed in the studio for nearly 90 years.

A group backed by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer has revealed plans to renovate Maida Vale Studios in west London.

The old BBC site was purchased by the partnership last year from the broadcaster after being valued at around £10 million.

The consultation states that the group will adopt a retrofit approach, meaning the work will prioritise energy-efficient and technological improvements while maintaining the existing building.

MVS Partnership LLP has not yet submitted a formal planning application to Westminster City Council.

Three new “state-of-the-art” studios are planned, along with more composer suites and music rooms.

“The renovated studios will provide approximately 42,000 square feet of creative workspace within the existing building, with flexible and adaptable technology,” the consultation website states.

A range of high-tech assembly facilities are planned, with food and beverage areas available on site for staff and visitors.

According to the consultation, the refurbishment would provide a venue of “national importance to the UK and the creative industries”.

“These proposed improvements will set new benchmarks for excellence in British film and music post-production, creating new jobs, driving innovation and promoting investment in the industry,” he said.

The studios are located in a Grade II listed building

Google Exterior of Maida Vale Studios, a white stucco facade with a decorative arched entrance. — The studios are located in a Grade II listed building

Some outdoor improvements are also planned, including more planting and seating.

Geoff Barraclough, cabinet member and Maida Vale councillor, said he was “delighted that the long history of Maida Vale Studios will continue under new management”.

He added: “As with any planning application, there will be many details to consider before the project is approved and we will want to ensure that local residents do not suffer during the construction work.”

Maida Vale Studios was once home to the BBC Symphony Orchestra

Rudolf Schwarz rehearsing with the BBC Symphony Orchestra at Maida Vale Studios in 1957 — Maida Vale Studios was once home to the BBC Symphony Orchestra

Maida Vale Studios is a Grade II listed building that the BBC converted into studios in 1933 and has since hosted a wide range of artists, from the Beatles to Beyoncé and Sir Elton John.

In 2018, the BBC announced it would move its live music centre to Stratford, east London, after describing the Maida Vale site as “totally unfit for the 21st century”.

Besides Hans Zimmer, the group that bought the studios includes film producers Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner and Mr. Zimmer’s longtime business partner, Steve Kofsky.

The online consultation will run until October 11.

Two public exhibitions are also planned, on October 1 and 2 at the Amadeus Centre on Shirland Road.