Labour backs dedicated Scottish film and TV studio

LABOUR has added its voice to calls for a dedicated film and television studio in Scotland and backed claims that it should be built in Glasgow.
Scenes from World War Z were filmed in Glasgow. Picture: ContributedScenes from World War Z were filmed in Glasgow. Picture: Contributed
Scenes from World War Z were filmed in Glasgow. Picture: Contributed

Culture spokeswoman Claire Baker said it would add to the success of the homegrown industry, with recent films made in Scotland such as Sunshine On Leith and World War Z.

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Leading figures in the industry such as the Glaswegian Bafta-winning director Tommy Gormley, whose Hollywood credits include two Star Trek films and the much-anticipated Star Wars: Episode VII, have already said a dedicated studio could draw some of Hollywood’s top talent to Scotland.

Labour MSP Baker said Scotland should have a similar centre to the Linen mill film studio in Belfast, which has hosted the filming of the cult American fantasy drama show Game Of Thrones.

Baker said Glasgow would be an ideal location for such a facility in Scotland due to its status as the base for the BBC north of the Border and STV.

She said: “Scotland has the skills and talent to be a forefront of film and TV, not just in the UK but throughout the entertainment world. What we now need to see is a serious commitment towards ensuring that the structure to complement this is in place.

“We see that there is a clear need for greater capacity for TV and films to be produced in Scotland, and to ensure that this can take place then we must see concrete plans announced for a film and TV studio in Scotland.

Baker added: “We need to ensure that Scotland cannot just match but exceed other parts of the UK in securing future high-quality shows and films.

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“Scotland has the infrastructure and it definitely has the scenery and landscapes to rival anywhere in the world. We now need a state of the art studio to entice top production companies to Scotland.

“Logistically Glasgow is a strong contender and must be seriously considered as the hub for TV and film in Scotland. With BBC and STV headquartered in the city, and a host of creative hubs and digital and production companies located nearby, the case for having the studio in our biggest city is compelling.”

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