BARCLAYS has been appointed as corporate banking partner for Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge, the foremost location for the filming of the globally acclaimed award-winning Game of Thrones TV series.
Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the series, the landmark attraction, which is being developed under licence with WarnerMedia, opens this summer.
It will transform the 10,000 sq metre film studio into an interactive tourist hub which will house iconic and authentic set pieces, props and costumes from the multi-award winning TV series.
The official tour will also highlight and promote the creative industries behind Game of Thrones including design, art, make-up, prosthetics and CGI technology.
The finance deal sees Barclays agreeing a £10 million term loan to part fund the £36.5m development at Linen Mill Studios, which is owned by family-run businesses John Hogg & Co and the US-based Stephens family of the eponymous Stephens Inc.
Barclays relationship director Gavin Campbell said: “Our relationship model has already added value to the project and we will continue to provide operational accounts and industry support as the team continues to build out its processes.
“We have been impressed by the management team’s dedication and foresight to deliver an eco-friendly world-class attraction which will celebrate the impact Game of Thrones has had on Northern Ireland.”
Andrew Webb, director at Linen Mill Studios, said: “We are now gathering momentum towards opening one of the most exciting visitor attractions in Northern Ireland’s history.
“The prospect of a Game of Thrones Studio Tour has already generated huge excitement and interest among fans around the world and we expect our opening to play a significant part in underpinning Northern Ireland’s economy and rejuvenating the tourism sector in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.”
