FROM having no major film studios, Scotland could soon have four after Screen Scotland announced yesterday that it is seeking an operator for proposed studios at the Port of Leith in Edinburgh.
The National can reveal that the Pentland Film Studios project at Straiton south of the capital is still going ahead despite a setback of a land tenure dispute a local farmer.
The Cumbernauld studios used for filming Outlander have been leased for at least two years by its producers, and The National understands from industry sources that another developer is looking at a site “north of the Forth”, as one source put it.
Screen Scotland yesterday launched its tender process inviting proposals from private developers to lease, refurbish and operate a permanent world-class film and television production facility at 31 Bath Road, formerly the Pelamis building, in Leith.
Recently host to Marvel’s Avengers: Infinity War, the former industrial building is situated on a private gated 8.6 acre site within the port estate and is owned by Forth Ports Limited.
Screen Scotland said: “Offering industry standard dimensions, it incorporates adaptable interior shooting options across 160,000 sq ft and potential for five sound stages of between 50ft and 100ft in height.
“In addition, there is 27,000 sq ft of flexible workshop, production and high-end office space; ample backlot provision allowing for significant production set-builds, and is well serviced by vehicle access doors and tech and unit based parking.”
Screen Scotland said the new studios would complement existing facilities like Wardpark.
Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs said: “The Scottish Government is focused on strengthening our screen sector and creating the conditions to support continued growth across production, development, talent and skills.
“We have significantly increased our funding for screen this year and supported the launch of Screen Scotland, which brings together public sector support for the industry.
“We welcome the launch of this tender process, which aims to enhance Scotland’s screen infrastructure and give private sector operators an opportunity to invest in Scotland’s growing screen sector.”
Robert Wilson, chair of Creative Scotland added: “I speak on behalf of the Board of Creative Scotland when I say how pleased I am to have reached this milestone moment.
“A significant amount of work, from a large number of people, has enabled us to get to this stage.
“With the continued support of the Scottish Government, I’m delighted that we are now able to take this critical step in our continued support for the growth of Scotland’s screen sector, which goes from strength to strength.”
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