The studio where films such as Prometheus and Skyfall were produced has announced plans for a £200 million expansion that could create more than 3,000 jobs.
Pinewood Studios said the move would give it an extra 100,000 square metres of new facilities, including studios and stages, workshops and streetscapes for filming.
Ivan Dunleavy, chief executive of studio owner Pinewood Shepperton, said the group had submitted a planning application to South Bucks District Council following “extensive consultation” with the film and television industry.
He added: “This is a critical opportunity for the creative industries and particularly for the UK film industry. Global demand for filmed entertainment is increasing and the UK remains one of the leading destinations to produce creative content.
“Without infrastructure to meet the rising demand, the UK will inevitably turn away business. Pinewood Studios, the UK film industry and UK plc cannot afford to allow this to happen.”
Ridley Scott, director of Blade Runner and Prometheus, said: “There is no doubt in my mind that the UK has to keep investing in new technology, skills and infrastructure to keep pace with international competition. The expansion at Pinewood is long overdue.”