Pinewood creates TV production arm

Star Wars: The Force Awakens was filmed recently at Pinewood

Pinewood Group has hired the producer behind The Enfield Haunting and Fortitude to lead a newly formed TV production division.

The new unit, a joint venture with investment vehicle StoryFirst PST, aims to create, develop and finance drama series for the international market.

Helen Gregory, who has been named Pinewood Television’s creative director, will lead the creative process from development and production through to delivery to broadcasters and distributors.

Pinewood Group said the new arm will form partnerships with producers and will provide development and deficit financing for projects. The division is expected to be both an originating producer and a coproducing partner on programmes.

“The global demand for high-end television continues to rise dramatically and, with fiscal incentives available, the Pinewood television business will participate in this growing market. Pinewood Television’s offering will build on the financing experience that Pinewood and StoryFirst have developed to date,” said Pinewood CEO Ivan Dunleavy.

Gregory’s most recent work includes The Enfield Haunting for Sky Living, Cider With Rosie starring Samantha Morton for BBC1 and Sky Atlantic’s Fortitude, among other programmes.

StoryFirst was established to back projects sponsored by US entrepreneur Peter Gerwe and partners. Its previous investments have been Russia-based and include CTC Media and Hello! magazine.