Moray TV production studio plans move a step closer to reality
Plans to build a film and TV production studio in the north-east have taken a step forward.
The production set to be built in Moray could attract major companies to the area.
Plans include building a 30,000 square foot soundstage, parking facilities for production and businesses as well as “community facilities”.
Moray’s SNP MSP Richard Lochhead was one of many to welcome the news.
He said: “Moray’s creative sector has grown significantly and at the same time there’s a growing demand for film production facilities in Scotland.”
David Wilson, marketing and development manager at Visit Moray Speyside, added: “Our region deserves to be showcased on the big screen to the world.”
Two individuals with key connections to the film industry formed the group.
Samantha Hill, based at Elgin Software company Openbrolly, and Marc Hindley from Screen Moray presented the plans to around 20 people at the ‘Build the Studio’ event at the HIE headquarters in Forres.
Samantha said: “We would be looking to provide services that will be as good or better than anything seen in the UK.
“A fully sustainable building, with access to the cities of Inverness and Aberdeen, a multi-purpose industry and community building in one, that strives for innovation, talent, economic growth and community development.
“We’ve got some of the best locations here in the north and north-east, yet there is this barrier facing production companies and facilities.
“The plans are certainly ambitious, and we recognise the significant costs involved.”
Marc Hindley said: “This not only needs careful planning but also investment in terms of money and the community.”
Anyone with an interest can apply to join the working group by emailing sam.hill@openbrolly.com