Near Reims in northeastern France, the former BA 112 air base is attracting interest from local companies seeking to expand their operations on the site. Once a military airfield, the location has evolved into a hub for creative and industrial projects, drawing attention from businesses looking to establish or grow their presence in the region.
The site, situated in Bétheny on the outskirts of Reims, has already hosted multiple film and television productions since 2018. Notably, it served as a filming location for the French television series “Chérif,” “Double je,” and “Le Code,” as well as a recent Arte series featuring Joey Starr. These productions have helped establish the area as a recognized destination for audiovisual work in the Grand Est region.
According to Vincent Bochu, director of the “Les Studios de Reims” project managed by Terralab Solutions, the base has welcomed approximately ten different production projects since its conversion began. Speaking about the site’s development, Bochu explained that what started as a single series shoot gradually led to ongoing activity: “We thought it would be a one-off, but ‘Chérif’ became a springboard, and a small operation took shape with various shoots.”
The expansive hangars and former runways of the BA 112 site offer unique advantages for both media production and industrial use. The large covered spaces provide flexible environments suitable for set construction, equipment storage, and manufacturing processes, even as the open tarmac areas allow for outdoor filming or logistics operations.
Recent developments have further highlighted the site’s potential. In May 2023, the studios at the former BA 112 were selected as part of the French government’s “La Grande Fabrique de l’Image” initiative, a national program backed by 350 million euros in funding aimed at strengthening France’s position in film, television, series, and video game production, post-production, and training for cinema-related professions. This designation means the Reims Terralab Studios are eligible to receive support from this national fund.
billionaire entrepreneur Xavier Niel has acquired approximately fifty hectares of the former BA 112 site with plans to develop film studios on the property. While specific timelines for construction have not been publicly detailed, the investment signals growing confidence in the area’s long-term viability as a media production center.
From Military Base to Multimedia Hub
The transformation of BA 112 reflects a broader trend of repurposing former military installations for civilian use across France. Originally operated by the French Air Force, the base was decommissioned and subsequently made available for redevelopment. Its infrastructure — including large aircraft hangars, control towers, and extensive ground surfaces — has proven adaptable to modern functions.
Local officials and economic development agencies have supported this transition, viewing the site as an opportunity to diversify the regional economy beyond traditional industries. The Marne department, where Reims is located, has promoted the site as part of its strategy to attract creative industries and high-value-added businesses.
Terralab Solutions, the company overseeing the studio operations, emphasizes the site’s readiness for immediate use. Unlike greenfield developments requiring years of construction, the existing structures at BA 112 allow production companies to begin work quickly, reducing lead times and initial costs.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The renewed activity at the former BA 112 has generated measurable effects on the local economy. Film and television productions typically require services from local vendors — including catering, transportation, security, and accommodation — creating indirect employment opportunities. The presence of productions often leads to skills transfer, as local technicians and artisans gain experience working on professional sets.
Culturally, the site’s association with popular French television series has contributed to regional pride and visibility. Shows like “Chérif,” which aired on France 2 and gained a strong following, have brought attention to Reims and its surroundings, potentially boosting tourism interest in the area.
The involvement of international figures such as Joey Starr in recent projects has too helped elevate the site’s profile beyond national borders, demonstrating its capacity to host productions with broader appeal.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite its advantages, developing the BA 112 site presents certain challenges. Environmental assessments may be required depending on the nature of new installations, particularly if industrial activities are planned alongside media use. Integrating modern technical infrastructure — such as high-speed connectivity, power supply, and water systems — into older buildings necessitates careful planning and investment.
Coordination among multiple stakeholders — including local governments, private investors, heritage conservation bodies, and potential tenants — remains essential to ensure coherent long-term development. Zoning regulations and land-use plans will play a key role in determining how different sections of the site are allocated.
As of now, no official master plan for the entire BA 112 site has been finalized, though various proposals are under discussion. Interested parties continue to evaluate the site’s suitability for their specific needs, balancing factors such as accessibility, cost, and available amenities.
What Lies Ahead
The next steps in the evolution of the former BA 112 will depend on decisions by current stakeholders regarding leasing arrangements, infrastructure upgrades, and partnership models. Terralab Solutions indicates ongoing discussions with production companies interested in using the studios, while Xavier Niel’s venture is expected to move forward with detailed planning phases.
For those seeking updates on the site’s development, official announcements from the Marne prefecture, the Grand Est regional authority, or the municipal offices of Bétheny and Reims are reliable sources. The French National Center for Cinema and the Moving Image (CNC) also provides information on funded projects and studio accreditation programs.
The transformation of BA 112 from a military airfield to a multi-use economic zone illustrates how underutilized public assets can be revitalized through private initiative and public support. As activity continues to grow, the site may serve as a model for similar conversions elsewhere in France.
We invite readers to share their thoughts on the redevelopment of former military sites for civilian use. Have you seen similar projects in your region? What opportunities or concerns do you see in such transformations? Join the conversation by commenting below and sharing this article with others interested in urban regeneration and industrial heritage.
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