Film studio set to ‘put Limerick on the map’ with project near UL

A local authority is expected to approve planning for a new film studio complex in Limerick tomorrow.

Troy Studios plan to put the city on the film industry map with a project to be located close to the University of Limerick.

A decision is due tomorrow from Limerick City and County Council.

The directors of Troy Studios include Ossie Kilkenny a joint owner of Ardmore Studios in Bray, along with Siun Ni Raghallaigh and well-known producer John Kelleher.

The former Dell manufacturing facility has been acquired by the studio group.

The studio buildings will encompass 180,000 sq feet.

Already a number of film makers in the US have indicated a desire to use the proposed new amenity.

Up to 500 people — 350 full-time and 150 part-time —could be employed in film productions.

Mr Kilkenny had been unable to cope with demand for Ardmore’s studios in Bray and said the new studio will double current studio floor space.

The council’s planning department has completed its detailed assessment.

It is believed the development of the studios will involve alterations to the existing structure and the erection of a new perimeter fence and access gates.

The plans also provide for the construction of a costume department, props area, sound studios, make-up area, workshops and a large open area.

Limerick City and County Council had acquired the building from a Limerick businessman for €6 million and entered into a long-term lease arrangement with Troy Studios to use it for film making. Siun Ni Raghallaigh said the new studio will put Limerick on the international film-making map.

It is envisaged the first project will commence in the first half of 2016.