Last week, Malta’s Planning Authority unanimously approved the construction plans for a 4,000 m² sound stage, the first of its kind on the archipelago and a highly desirable facility for the development of the local audiovisual sector. The premises will boast an interior 2,000 m² water tank overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Minister for Tourism Clayton Bartolo highlighted the sound stage’s approval as a crucial step in the development of the country’s audiovisual infrastructure, which will result in the creation of quality jobs together with further opportunities in the industry: “With the construction of Malta’s first sound stage, we will continue to maximise the potential for our local industry and cement it as a key economic motor for our country.”

He also emphasised how this project would continue to attract more international shoots in the long term and would provide the necessary opportunities for local crews to continue developing their skills.

Malta film commissioner Johann Grech reflected on how “the success of our industry reflects Malta’s economy”, which he defined as “resilient”. “We are experiencing a record number of locals working in the film industry as well as an unprecedented level of investment from both the government and the private sector. For many years – almost 60 years – we’ve been hearing that sound stages were going to be built in Malta. Today, we are writing our own history,” added Grech. He also pointed out that the construction of the archipelago’s first sound stage had long been discussed over the years, and he disclosed that the project is part of a €35 million master plan for the regeneration of the Malta Film Studios.