Film Office part of plan to make region ‘a world-class screen hub’
A NEW film office is being opened in Leeds in the latest announcement of on-screen expansion in the region, following Channel 4’s decision to choose the city as its national headquarters.
Screen Yorkshire yesterday revealed it is now expanding operations at its existing offices at The Calls in the city centre, in a bid to boost support it offers to screen industries across Yorkshire.
The organisation, which champions film and TV industries in the region, said the move was part of its ambition “to make Yorkshire a world-class hub for film and television”. While the Film Office will initially work out of its existing space on The Calls, Screen Yorkshire said it is now also “exploring the development” of a new, large-scale studio complex.
Screen Yorkshire’s chief executive, Sally Joynson, 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 Film Office team will provide improved production “liaison and support” on issues ranging from location and facilities to crew and education links. It will also offer aspiring producers advice on being based in Yorkshire.
It comes just two weeks after Channel 4 announced that Leeds had emerged victorious from the bidding process to become the base for its new headquarters outside of London. The publicservice broadcaster will relocate more than 200 jobs to Leeds.
Ms Joynson added: “Together with the news that Channel 4 is moving its national headquarters to the region, the opening of Screen Yorkshire’s Film Office today sends a clear message to screen industry creatives far and wide that Yorkshire is open for business and ready to welcome them.”