“This is great news for the region” was the reaction of Phil Willis MP (LibDem, Harrogate & Knaresborough) to today’s announcement by ITV Studios’ of a major £5 million investment in the Kirkstall Road studios in Leeds.

The investment will be made in upgrading and refurbishing the original main building so it can accommodate the Emmerdale production centre which is currently situated on Burley Road.

“I understand that the investment will provide not only for first class High Definition facilities but also that there will be enough capacity for potential creative partnerships with interested parties in the region. This is good news and should help to encourage local creative talent and technical expertise.” said Phil Willis.

“When ITV announced redundancies in the drama production studios in Kirkstall earlier this year I was fearful for the future of our region as a centre of excellence. This announcement goes some way to restoring my faith that important skills will not be lost to this region.” he added.