NEP Australia (formerly Global Television) has acquired the Seven Network’s 50 per cent share in Coventry Street Properties, owner of the Media City Melbourne (MCM) television studio complex.

This means NEP now fully owns the production facility at 55 Coventry Street, Southbank, which is currently home to shows including Dancing with the Stars, Million Dollar Minute, Family Feud and Fox Footy Channel programs.

Independent producers such as Endemol Australia, FremantleMedia Australia, Roving Enterprises and Shine also use the NEP-operated studios and facilities.

The Seven Network will remain an important client with a multi-year commitment to continue productions at MCM.

NEP Australia CEO Keith Andrews said: “NEP is always exploring options to grow our business and further engage with the local television production community. As with our recent purchase of Silk Studios in Sydney, we are committed to owning and operating studios, and assuming full ownership of Media City Melbourne complements that strategy. We have enjoyed a successful working relationship with Seven and look forward to continuing to service Seven Network productions while also seeking to further diversify MCM’s client base.”

Andrews added the latest phase of MCM enhancements would be complete in mid-January, with the upgrade of all internal technical facilities and the existing studio control room to High Definition.