Screen Yorkshire mulls building studio

UK funding body Screen Yorkshire is exploring the development of an entirely new large-scale studio complex in the region, having this week opened a new office there.

Sally Joynson

The Leeds-based organisation, which already supports the film and TV industry through commercial investment scheme the Yorkshire Content Fund (YCF), has opened a Film Office in the city to help support further opportunities for UK and international producers.

The office is intended to help Screen Yorkshire ramp up its existing activity and expand the support and resources it offers the screen industries by providing a one-stop shop for all filming enquiries in the region.

It is also working in conjunction with public and private partners to explore the potential of a new studio complex, which would provide a major hub for domestic and international film and TV activity.

The organisation has already developed the Church Fenton Yorkshire Studios, home of Mammoth Screen’s ITV drama Victoria.

Sally Joynson, CEO of Screen Yorkshire, said: “Our ambition to make Yorkshire a world-class venue for the screen industries has taken a step forward today with the opening of our Film Office.

“Our dedicated team and resource will provide a single point of contact for producers wanting to film in the region – and provide them with a bespoke service to give them the advice and support they need to deliver their project.”

The Yorkshire Content Fund launched in 2012 and has supported 40 film and TV projects including Ackley Bridge, The Great Train Robbery, Peaky Blinders and Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell.

Last month the region was boosted by news that commercially funded public broadcaster Channel 4 would house its new national headquarters in Leeds, with additional creative hubs in Bristol and Glasgow.

Broadcaster UKTV and production company Lime Pictures also subsequently announced plans to set up shop in the city.