Film director unveils plans to turn empty Wisbech courthouse into film and television studios

Wisbech Magistrates Court. (Image: Archant)

“It is a case of what is viable and how we could use a building that could symbolise and signify what Wisbech stands for,” he said.

Film director Arbind Ray during a recent visit to the courthouse, Wisbech, with town mayor Councillor Vivien MacRae (Image: Archant)

Mr Ray hasn’t put together a financial package yet to secure the building from the Ministry of Justice but hopes it can become a central vision of Wisbech 20/20 Vision regeneration.

“I can see its future as a multi use media centre,” said Mr Ray who lives in London but has property interests in Cambridgeshire and the Fens.

He said that as a member of Octavia Hill Society and Friends of the courthouse he has followed developments in Wisbech with interest.

“As the township shifts gear it becomes advantageous to take a global view,” said Mr Ray.

“It is precisely this repositioning of the former courthouse building in all its glory that provides impetus for the long term as a nexus for media practitioners, film, and television companies.”

He said his plans include not only hiring out production offices and sets and a mock trial and training centre it might also be possible to use the building for weddings too.

He said: “Wisbech mayor Vivien MacRae was in attendance at the courthouse last month during a site survey conducted by a project team who specialise in installation of media studios and the feedback was very positive.”

Mr Ray said that although he lived in London he spent time in Wisbech “and as a film maker there is a lot to be said about the town. By using the court house for multi use as a media centre we can hone that into a more attractive venue. It all needs to gather momentum.”