The council has been looking for a backer for Eastbrook Studios London after original developer Pacific Ventures pulled out last year over Brexit uncertainties.

The project comes with planning permission, and HCP’s plans include up to 12 sound stages, three acres of backlot, offices and ancillary space, totalling over half a million square feet.

HCP is planning to invest “hundreds of millions” in the scheme which will be leased to the firm on a 250-year basis.

Building work is set to start next year and filming could start as early as mid-2022 with the studio fully operational by 2023.

Councillor Darren Rodwell, Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, said: “Today we’re making history.  Dagenham used to be famous for factories and Fords but in the future, we will be equally famous for making films.

“So, I am hugely proud to announce HCP as our partner. They are the right people at the right time. It’s the ‘reel deal’ for our borough, London and the UK.  Movies will be Made in Dagenham.”