Sir John Armitt has been named chairman and Max James appointed chief executive of Marlow Studios as the Buckinghamshire film complex moves into construction. The 90‑acre project will include 18 sound stages and is expected to support more than 2,000 jobs during a 44‑month build and deliver roughly 2,060 permanent on‑site roles. The scheme won government planning permission on appeal after initial green‑belt objections and has public backing from industry figures including James Cameron, Andy Serkis and Sir Sam Mendes.
Sir John Armitt and Max James Take Helm at Marlow Studios as 90‑Acre Film Complex Moves Into Construction
Marlow Studios has been backed by Hollywood figures such as Titanic director James Cameron [Marlow Studios]
Two seasoned executives who helped deliver the 2012 Olympics and reshape major London neighbourhoods have been appointed to lead Marlow Studios as the Buckinghamshire film complex moves into its construction phase.
Sir John Armitt and Max James will become board members at Marlow Studios [Marlow Studios]
Leadership Changes
Sir John Armitt, former chair of the Olympic Delivery Authority, has been named chairman of Marlow Studios. Max James, who led the planning and delivery of major mixed‑use projects including Wembley Park, Greenwich Peninsula and Thameside West, becomes chief executive. Robert Laycock, co‑founder and outgoing chief executive, will step down from the executive role and remain on the board as a non‑executive director.
The project was initially rejected by Buckinghamshire Council over concerns about building on green belt land [Marlow Studios]
Project Snapshot
The 90‑acre development will feature 18 sound stages and is expected to support more than 2,000 jobs during an estimated 44‑month construction programme, with preliminary works already under way. Once operational, the complex is projected to create around 2,060 permanent on‑site positions.
Planning, Support And Controversy
The scheme won planning permission from the UK government on appeal after Buckinghamshire Council initially rejected the proposals amid concerns about building on protected green‑belt land. The project has attracted public support from high‑profile film figures including James Cameron, Andy Serkis and Sir Sam Mendes.
Armitt said: "The Studios' construction is a strong vote of confidence in the UK creative and technology sectors, reflecting the world‑leading role that the UK plays in the global creative economy. This leadership role for the UK is founded on our deep‑rooted talent base, our long tradition of creativity and our business excellence. It is a cornerstone of the UK economy of which we should all be proud."
Laycock added: "My co‑founders and I are delighted to have appointed Sir John and Max and we are looking forward to taking Marlow Studios through its next phase and realising our vision."
The new appointments bring large‑scale delivery and regeneration experience to the project as it transitions from planning to construction and onward to full operation.
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