Warner Bros commits to keeping European HQ in London

Warner Brothers, the Hollywood film-maker, has signalled its confidence in Britain’s entertainment industry, by committing to keeping its European headquarters in London until at least 2034.

The firm behind the Harry Potter movies and The Big Bang Theory TV show, has agreed a major lease extension at its 98 Theobald’s Road office, in a deal brokered by agents CBRE and Strutt & Parker.

The company- whose parent Time Warner is being acquired by AT&T , pending shareholder and regulatory approvals- had a lease there until 2019. But it has now signed for a further 15 years after that date.

Its landlord, Schroders-managed Welput, advised by Grafton Advisors, will undertake a makeover of the property, including new 3D movie viewing rooms.

Sources said the deal will help to weaken fears that Britain’s vote to leave the EU could impact sales of UK films and international films being made here.

All parties declined to comment on the deal.