Within just three years, Scotland could have its first major film studio. A report by Scottish Enterprise, published yesterday, identify a clear opportunity and a strong demand for studio space. The project is expected to cost around £2m and would support a rapidly growing industry in a country which watches more films per person than anywhere else in the world.
Scotland has recently played host to a range of major productions, from World War Z to Under The Skin, and JJ Abrams plans to shoot part of the new Star Wars film on the Isle of Skye later this year. Although the country's dramatic highland and island landscapes have proven particularly appealing to filmmakers, it is Glasgow's Pacific Quay that is thought to be the most likely home for the studio, being well connected and right in the heart of the Scottish media landscape. The studio, as currently planned, would consist of production offices, two sound stages with 35,000 feet of filming space, and two workshops.
The study drew on the assistance of experts in economic analysis, architecture, engineering and acoustics, capital development and studio management, and involved input from Creative Scotland, which is aiming to produce a strategy for taking the project forward by June. It is hoped that private backers can be found to support the work, with several having previously expressed an interest in engaging with a project of this sort.
"The Scottish Government values the contribution that filmmaking, animation and television production makes to Scotland’s rich cultural life with public sector investment in support for the screen sector, across production, education, training and exhibition, increasing to £21 million in 2012-13," said Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop. "We have consistently championed Scotland as a location for international film and TV productions and we work hard to ensure Scotland is widely recognised for its world-class talent, crews, facilities and breathtaking locations. Scottish ministers are firmly committed to supporting a sustained increase in production."
