With the announcement of a cutting-edge ‘Digital Arena’ and film studio at Doncaster Waterfront, and the unveiling of a state-of-the-art Gaming Hub at University Campus Doncaster, the city is on the brink of a transformative digital evolution. These developments are not just about buildings, but about the potential they hold to revolutionize the city’s digital landscape, making it a future hub for innovation, business, and creative industries.
The Rise of Doncaster’s Digital Cluster
The planned Digital Cluster at Doncaster Waterfront will feature a digital arena, film studio, hotel, multi-story car park, and approximately 300 apartments and senior living accommodations. This ambitious vision, part of Doncaster’s 25-year City Centre Strategy, aims to turn the area into a thriving centre for digital technology, business, and entertainment.
Speaking to journalists, the Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones, highlighted the enormous potential of the Waterfront, calling it one of the UK’s largest brownfield redevelopment opportunities. With remediation works already underway, the city is set to attract investors, digital entrepreneurs, and creative professionals looking to be part of this exciting transformation.
Doncaster On Film
The development of new film studio facilities in Doncaster is expected to attract more high-profile TV and film production companies to the region. Doncaster’s versatile locations have already been showcased in a wide variety of films and television series, contributing significantly to the UK’s rich entertainment landscape. Here are some notable productions associated with the area:
Open All Hours / Still Open All Hours
One of Doncaster’s most iconic contributions to British television is the classic sitcom “Open All Hours,” created by Roy Clarke. The series, which aired from 1976 to 1985, starred Ronnie Barker as the miserly shopkeeper Albert Arkwright and David Jason as his put-upon nephew Granville. The exterior scenes were filmed at a corner shop located on Lister Avenue in Balby, Doncaster. This location continued to serve as the backdrop for the sequel series, “Still Open All Hours,” which began in 2013 with David Jason reprising his role as Granville.
Brassed Off
The 1996 film “Brassed Off,” which tells the story of a colliery band’s struggles during the pit closures of the 1990s, featured scenes shot in Doncaster. Notably, Doncaster Minster and the old Doncaster College site on Church View were used as filming locations, adding authenticity to this poignant drama.
Whatever Happened to Harold Smith?
This 1999 comedy-drama, featuring a cast that includes Tom Courtenay, Lulu, Stephen Fry, David Thewlis, and James Corden, filmed several scenes in the Hexthorpe area of Doncaster. The film offers a nostalgic look at 1970s Britain through the lens of a young man’s coming-of-age story.
Red Riding
The “Red Riding” trilogy, a series of crime dramas released in 2009, is set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire Ripper investigations. Parts of the series were filmed in Stainforth, Doncaster, contributing to the dark and atmospheric portrayal of the region during that era.
Four Lions
The 2010 satirical dark comedy “Four Lions,” directed by Chris Morris, includes scenes shot at the former Robin Hood Airport (now Doncaster Sheffield Airport). The film follows a group of inept terrorists and uses various locations to depict their misguided exploits.
The Syndicate
This BBC drama series, which follows groups of people who win the lottery and how it impacts their lives, filmed parts of its fourth series at Doncaster Sheffield Airport. The show’s use of the airport adds to the diverse array of locations featured throughout its run.
A New Home for Gaming and Esports Innovation
In addition to the Waterfront development, University Campus Doncaster has unveiled a £300,000 Gaming Hub designed to support the next generation of game developers and esports professionals. Funded by the Department for Education’s Skills Injection Fund, the Gaming Hub provides industry-grade technology, high-spec gaming computers, professional esports equipment, and immersive sound rooms.
James Cotterill, Programme Leader for Game Development at UCDon, emphasized that the hub will be a launchpad for aspiring digital professionals. With cutting-edge resources at their disposal, students will not just be learning, but will be equipped with the skills and experience needed to thrive in the rapidly growing gaming and digital industries. This is a testament to the bright future of these industries.
According to Statista, this industry isn’t all fun and games. It’s a very serious business. In fact, the UK’s gaming and esports industries have become significant pillars of the national economy, demonstrating remarkable growth and contributing substantially to employment and GDP. In 2023, the UK’s video game industry contributed £3.68 billion to the national GDP, marking its highest recorded contribution since 2011. This surge underscores the sector’s expanding influence and economic importance.
Why Choose Coppergate Serviced Accommodation in Doncaster?
As Doncaster’s digital and creative landscape expands, the demand for high-quality accommodation will only increase. Coppergate Serviced Accommodation is ideally positioned to cater to professionals, students, and visitors coming to Doncaster for business, study, or investment opportunities.
Our fully furnished apartments offer modern amenities, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a comfortable environment for both short and long-term stays. Whether you’re in Doncaster for a conference at the future Digital Arena, working on a film project at the new studio, or collaborating with gaming experts at the University Campus, Coppergate Serviced Accommodation provides the perfect base for your stay.
