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Tag: North East

North East Screen Celebrates 3 Years of Big Impacts and Bigger Ambitions

Posted on by Jo Macleod

North East Screen is proud to unveil its 3 Years of Big Impacts Report (2022–2025), showcasing a remarkable period of growth in a difficult global climate.

North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP) investments across the North East is creating opportunities for the resilient world class talent based in the region to innovate and pivot to new ways of working across an ever changing creative industry.

The report highlights a 131% surge in regional production spend, driven by strategic investment, the impactful work of the North East Screen Film Office, and the growth of a vibrant creative ecosystem fostered through collaboration with regional and national partners, including the BBC. With over £65 million in GVA, the North East has firmly established itself as the fastest-growing region in the UK for screen industries.

Other key achievements over the three years include:

  • The equivalent of 1,046 FTE jobs created across the screen sector, according to the EIA Saffrey report
  • An impressive £6.70 return on every £1 invested in projects via the North East Production Fund (NEPF)
  • £2.37 million invested in 10 productions through the NEPF
  • 65% of crew members employed on NEPF productions are from the North East
  • A 90% increase in filming days with productions staying and filming for longer in the region thanks to alternative studio spaces
  • 6,422 paid training days on production delivered to support lifelong workforce development
  • 8 regularly commissioned companies – up from just one prior to 2022
  • 50 investments in slate and business development for regional companies and talent

North East Screen Chief Executive, Alison Gwynn said,

“Not only is the North East the fastest growing region in the UK for screen industries, it’s also a region bursting with untapped potential, despite the challenges the global screen industry has faced.

 “This report is a testament to the power of our unique public sector and industry collaboration. Everything achieved here is thanks to the incredible talent, crew, businesses and world class stories that are rooted in our region.

“Productions come to the North East for our world class locations, which are vibrant, diverse and really accessible, and stay because they find all they need via our welcoming front door to the industry in the region.

“This is just the beginning. As we enter the next phase of our delivery, we will ensure that our activity reflects the diversity of the region, backs innovation, and has sustainable and inclusive practices embedded across all of it.”

North East Screen is the delivery programme of the North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP), driving growth across the screen industries and wider creative industries in the North East and Tees Valley with funding support from the Tees Valley Combined Authority and North East Combined Authority. NESIP is committed to unlocking the full creative potential of the region, with the aim to more than double its share of the UK film and TV production market, generating an economic impact of £88 million over the initial five year period.

In collaboration with the BBC and alongside regional education institutions, NESIP is building a sustainable, inclusive screen ecosystem that nurtures local talent, supports production, and attracts national and international projects. 

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said,

“We are a region full of creative talent and that is why we’re investing £6,252,944 to support the groundbreaking work North East Screen is doing to bring major film and TV productions to our region.

“Our iconic landmarks and locations have been beamed across the world and featured in leading film and TV productions, including the Harry Potter films and more recently 28 Years Later.

“Bringing more productions to the region means hundreds of new creative jobs and opportunities, right from starring roles to those supporting behind the scenes.

“We’re setting the stage to become a real powerhouse of UK film and TV production, and as our plans for leading studios right here in our region progress, it’s an incredibly exciting time for the creative industries and talent located here in the Noth East.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said,

“It’s outstanding that our region’s vibrant TV and film production industry is going from strength to strength as the fastest-growing in the UK – supporting hugely successful shows such as the powerful Teesside story told in ‘I Fought The Law‘.

 “Our support – in collaboration with the work of North East Screen – is helping this area establish itself as creative powerhouse and become a place where local people can build exciting, skilled careers.

“Through the Tees Valley Investment Zone, we’re putting a real focus on supporting our fast-growing creative and digital sectors – driving forward with the £33.5m expansion of The Northern Studios and an exciting new production village in Hartlepool.

 “These developments are creating well-paid jobs, attracting investment, and making our region the go-to place for world-class productions. We’re proud to be playing our part in this success story.”

As the region continues to grow, North East Screen remains committed to backing homegrown talent and championing the crews and businesses that bring global content to the region. With the North East, Crown Works Studios and the Tees Valley Investment Zone – focused on growing creative and digital industries – highlighted in the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy, the region is in a good place to continue its growth, enhancing why the North East is considered one of the best places to live, work and play in the UK.

Watch the Impact Video

28 Years Later – a love letter to the North East

Posted on by Curtis Wake
How the North East helped bring 28 Years Later to life

28 Years Later, the highly anticipated follow-up to the iconic franchise, delivers a thrilling story, and behind the scenes showcases the North East as a production-ready region with stunning locations, skilled crew, and strong local support. The North East Screen Film Office played an important role, providing hands-on guidance from early development through to wrap.

From the earliest planning stages, North East Screen worked closely with DNA Films to support location scouting and development. After first connecting at the industry event FOCUS in 2023, the team fast-tracked the production by providing location ideas, key contacts, and practical support. Within just eight weeks, meetings and recces were underway. A two-day Familiarisation Trip gave the location managers a full picture of what the region could offer and introduced them to the people who would help bring the summer shoot to life. Bespoke location and facilities brochures highlighted hidden gems, while strong relationships across the Filming Friendly Network helped unlock access to unique sites and local partners.

Production highlights

  • 43 of 51 locations (84%) sourced locally, including private estates with breathtaking landscapes and on-site accommodation for cast and crew
  • 76 local crew members, including trainees supported through North East Screen’s Access initiative, which identified skills gaps and onboarded local talent
  • 173 supporting artists, mostly from the North East
  • Nearby set build space secured with Sunderland City Council, allowing the recreation of the iconic Holy Island causeway. An unused warehouse was transformed into a fully functioning water studio, and DNA Films extended the lease to build additional sets
  • Facilities and services utilised: accommodation, storage, set build, casting, and even archery training

To celebrate the film’s release, a Gala Screening at Tyneside Cinema brought together director Danny Boyle, lead cast Alfie Williams, and chief ‘Alpha’ Chi Lewis-Parry. The event attracted 30 press accreditations and coverage from 15 media titles, generating high local engagement and positioning the North East as a destination for productions that have global appeal.

Bringing the screen to the region

In collaboration with Visit Britain and Destination North East, the “Visit If You Dare” campaign invited fans to explore the iconic locations of 28 Years Later. The film’s biohazard symbol and campaign hashtag were projected onto key landmarks across the region. By linking big-screen storytelling with destination marketing, the initiative encouraged audiences to discover the North East’s beautiful landscapes, which feature as eerie locations in the film.

With 28 Years Later available worldwide, audiences can experience a gripping story set against the North East, while seeing firsthand the work of local crews, the facilities and locations that supported the production, and the collaborative infrastructure that makes the region a premier destination for film and television.

Middlesbrough’s Wander Films to co-produce two-part series with Daisybeck Studios for 5

Posted on by Jo Macleod
5 to follow Ben Fogle on high stakes mission as he takes over iconic clothing brand

5 have announced an ambitious new two-part documentary series – co-produced by Daisybeck Studios and Middlesbrough-based Wander Films – which follows adventurer and broadcaster Ben Fogle as he embarks on his most formidable challenge yet: taking over an iconic British business.

Ben Fogle: Made in Sheffield (w/t) (2x 60’),  will chart Ben’s gamble into the unknown as he risks his life savings, reputation, and family’s financial future to invest in and nurture Buffalo, a legendary British brand. The Sheffield-based cult outdoor brand is known for its old-school, indestructible kit and is beloved by mountain rescue teams and military folk.

All eyes are on Ben as we follow him from factory floor to shop launch party as he tries to bring a cult brand into the modern era.

The commission follows 5’s commissioning team visiting the North East earlier this year to meet emerging production companies in the region as part of an event organised by North East Screen.

Ben Fogle commented: “I’ve taken on some big adventures in my life, but this might be the boldest yet. Buying a Sheffield factory and investing in Buffalo is a huge leap – financially and emotionally. I’ve put everything into it because I believe in the brand, the people, and the power of British manufacturing. It’s a challenge, no doubt, but I can’t wait to see how it turns out.”

Denise Seneviratne Commissioning Editor, Factual at 5 added: “I believe this new series will offer a fresh perspective on Ben – one our audience hasn’t seen before. It’s a bold and risky personal challenge that promises both heart and grit. I’m genuinely excited to be working with the small North Eastern company Wander, based in Middlesbrough, alongside Daisybeck. I believe they’ll craft a compelling and emotional series as Ben trades the wild for the workshop in his mission to revive a British iconic brand.”

Mark McMullen, Executive Producer for Daisybeck Studios said “We’re thrilled to be part of Ben’s boldest adventure yet. This series will showcase the vision, resilience, and sheer determination needed to revive a much-loved Yorkshire brand. We’ll be following Ben from the factory floor through to his ambitious relaunch and can’t wait to share this remarkable journey with the audience.”

Chloë Clover Executive Producer, Wander Films noted: “This is exactly the kind of story we love; bold, full of personality, real people taking risks. Buffalo is a Sheffield icon with a cult following and Ben’s mission to bring it into the modern era is packed with heart and high stakes. We’re buzzing to co-produce and can’t wait for audiences to see how it plays out.”

Ben Fogle: Made in Sheffield (w/t) is a 2 x 60’ series commissioned by Denise Seneviratne Commissioning Editor, Factual at 5. The series will be co-produced by Daisybeck Studios and Wander Films and directed by Adam Caldow. Mark McMullen serves as Executive Producer for Daisybeck Studios and Chloë Clover and Lou Tonner are Executive Producers for Wander Films.

The series is expected to air in 2026 on 5.

BBC and North East Screen Launch First-of-its-Kind Digital Accelerator

Posted on by Jo Macleod

The BBC Digital Accelerator, delivered in partnership with North East Screen, is designed to elevate the next wave of world-class digital content creators right here in the North East of England.

Who’s it for?

We’re looking for bold, ambitious production companies ready to develop standout content for online platforms that can generate future revenue. If you’re passionate about reaching audiences with innovative, platform-native video – think vertical formats, livestreams, creator-led collaborations, and social-first storytelling – we want to hear from you.

But it’s not just about companies. We’re also actively seeking digital creators who champion the North East, both on-screen and behind the scenes. If you’re producing content that resonates across TikTok, YouTube, Twitch, or other platforms – or if you’re eager to partner with companies shaping the future of digital storytelling – this is your chance to connect.

Why get involved?

This is more than just an accelerator. It’s an opportunity to:

  • • Apply as a company and access support to scale your content.
  • • Connect as a creator and find future collaborators in the region.
  • • Network with both companies and talent who share your ambition to supercharge the North East’s digital scene.

Let’s talk

Whether you’re a company hoping to apply, a creator looking to collaborate, or simply curious about how the BBC Digital Accelerator could help you grow, complete our expression of interest today.

All details and guidance will soon be available at https://www.bbc.co.uk/commissioning/.

Sunderland studio plans move to final investment stage

Posted on by Jo Macleod

PLANS for a world-class film studio complex are being presented to the investment market, with the aim to put in place a final funder and developer later this year. 

Sunderland City Council as land-owner and project lead is moving to test the appetite of the wider investment market for the Crown Works Film Studios opportunity, and is appointing a specialist agent who will be engaging investors, including the likes of Fulwell Entertainment who were part of the joint venture which first tabled proposals for a North East studio and continue to champion the project.  

The council have confirmed that – as is necessary in public sector projects – they will be testing the investment market, to ensure that they secure the best partner to push ahead with the studio plans.  The process, which will take place over the coming months, gives interested parties a window of opportunity to commit to develop the first phase of the studios. A final decision will then be made by Sunderland City Council on who will progress with the studios. 

As the development of Crown Works Studios, which has been backed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, will involve considerable public sector support in both grant and the disposal 30 hectares of land on the banks of the Wear – market testing is required to ensure the proposed developer(s) plans represent the best opportunity for the project to demonstrate the return required on the public investment.

Councillor Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “These studios represent a game-changing opportunity for the city and we cannot wait to see them progress.

“There’s an absolute commitment to deliver the best possible delivery partner to move this forward and we expect that we will have funding confirmed and ready to progress the first phase of the studios by the time remediation works complete later this year.”

A programme of remediation work is now on-site, instructed by Sunderland City Council using funding from UK Government unlocked through the North East Combined Authority, to prepare the former Crown Works site for development.

Planning permission has been secured for Crown Works Studios and a total funding package worth £120m to support its development is available, thanks partly to the efforts of the local authority in lobbying Government to support the development of a film studios on the site.

The Government’s support for Crown Works – which was channelled via the North East Combined Authority – represents a significant incentive that underpins the commercial viability of the scheme for investors looking to get involved in the first phase of its development.

Fulwell Entertainment remains a committed champion of the scheme. Other key supporters include North East Screen, the region’s screen agency, which is headquartered in Sunderland.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “We have big ambitions to grow the North East’s creative sector and Crown Works Studios in Sunderland is a key element of our vision, alongside opening the first major label recording studio in the region and opening a national centre for new writing.

“We’re supporting Sunderland City Council in the job of preparing the site, which can eventually be the largest film and TV production complex in the UK outside of London and the South East. 

“In the process we’ll create thousands of new jobs for local people and end the days where people have to leave the North East to pursue a career in creative industries. This is why the project has to date secured a public sector funding package worth £120m including £25m which we have put in to begin preparation of the site at Pallion on Sunderland Riverside. We remain confident that this will be a flagship site in a thriving industry for years to come.”

The studios will provide infrastructure that North East Screen Chief Executive Alison Gwynn said will underpin the region’s success in the sector. 

She said: “The region is 100% committed to studio development as part of their support for the wider creative industry. 

“Film and TV production in the North East is up 131% over the last three years and we recently saw one of the most eagerly anticipated blockbusters, 28 Years Later, showcase not only some outstanding locations, but also some epic scenes created here in our alternative studio space. Not only did they shoot more than 80% of the film in the region, but they also were based here for over nine months.”

“We are now excited to be looking for the right investor for the next stage of our regions growth. The North East have never been in a better position to make the most of these exciting opportunities.”

Creative Industries are at the heart of Government’s priorities in its Industrial Strategy. It is one of eight key growth sectors identified in the Strategy, with a published Sector Plan demonstrating a commitment to investment, IP protection and enhanced R&D for the sector.

28 Years Later to have special North East Gala Screening

Posted on by Jo Macleod

On Thursday 19th June, one of the most hotly anticipated films of the year, 28 Years Later, will have a special North East Gala Screening at the Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle. The film’s Director, Danny Boyle, and Newcastle-native actor, Alfie Williams, who makes his feature film debut in 28 Years Later, will be attending.

In partnership with the North East Combined Authority, Destination North East, Tyneside Cinema and Visit Britain, North East Screen will be rolling out the black carpet for invited guests and media to celebrate the franchise film that was predominantly filmed within the North East. The screening will also be attended by North East crew, extras and location providers who were all involved in the film’s production.

Kim McGuiness, North East Mayor said,

“The North East Gala Screening will be one of the largest screen events held in the North East for some time. The film will have wide global reach and we are proud that people will see the North East as the stunning backdrop to this film as well as see the work of our world class talented crew, suppliers and facilities. The North East welcomes more filming and 28 Years Later proves we can be a home for world class film and TV production creating more jobs for local people.”

Gayle Woodruffe, Operations Director at North East Screen commented,

“We are delighted to welcome Danny, Alfie and so many of our amazingly talented North East Crew to this special preview screening of 28 Years Later, made right here in the North East. The team made excellent use of the diversity and versatility of locations available in our region and the film promotes the North East of England as a viable home for major feature films and HETV drama.”

Nic Greenan, Chief Executive at the Tyneside Cinema added,

“This is such an important moment for The Tyneside Cinema, and hosting such a prestigious screening will make this heritage venue the number one place to see and experience the film in the region where it was filmed.”

Ian Thomas, Chief Operating Officer of NewcastleGateshead Initiative on behalf of Destination North East Englandsaid,

“To have such a massive blockbuster as 28 Years Later both be set and filmed in the region is fantastic, shining a spotlight on our tranquil countryside, dramatic coastlines and vibrant towns and cities to cinema goers around the world. It will be a huge draw for visitors eager to explore our stunning landscapes and walk in the footsteps of the film’s stars. Alongside a multi-channel tourism campaign we’re delivering in partnership with Visit Britain and Sony Pictures, we’re proud to support the regional gala screening, a huge coup for the city, and to welcome the film’s director and passionate advocate for Northern England Danny Boyle back to the area to unleash the latest instalment on the viewing public! Visit North East England… if you dare!”

Patricia Yates, CEO VisitBritain said,

“The North East Gala Screeningwill truly put Newcastle and the North East centre-stage. With the starring role destinations across the region have played in the film there could not be a more fitting place to host a screening, inspiring visitors to go out and explore the locations seen on screen. It is also timely as VisitBritain rolls out its international ‘Starring GREAT Britain campaign’. Using films and TV shows as the hook the campaign is telling the story of our dynamic and diverse destinations including the North East, encouraging people to put themselves in the picture and book a trip to Britain right now, driving visitor spending into local economies.”

Academy Award®-winning director Danny Boyle and Academy Award®-nominated writer Alex Garland reunite for 28 YEARS LATER, a terrifying new “auteur horror” story set in the world created by 28 Days Later. It’s been almost three decades since the rage virus escaped a biological weapons laboratory, and now, still in a ruthlessly enforced quarantine, some have found ways to exist amidst the infected. One such group of survivors lives on a small island connected to the mainland by a single, heavily defended causeway. When one of the group leaves the island on a mission into the dark heart of the mainland, he discovers secrets, wonders, and horrors that have mutated not only the infected but other survivors as well.

Columbia Pictures presents 28 YEARS LATER. The film stars Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams and Ralph Fiennes. Directed By Danny Boyle. Written by Alex Garland. Produced by Andrew Macdonald, Peter Rice, Bernard Bellew, Danny Boyle, Alex Garland. Executive producer is Cillian Murphy. The director of photography is Anthony Dod Mantle ASC, BSC, DFF. The editor is Jon Harris. Production & costume designers are Gareth Pugh and Carson McColl. Music by Young Fathers. Casting by Gail Stevens CDG and Rebecca Farhall.

Screen Alliance North launches industry wide working group to improve sustainability across productions in the North

Posted on by Jo Macleod

Screen Alliance North, the northern screen industry skills cluster, (thanks to support from the BFI awarding National Lottery funding), is working closely with sustainability consultants Picture Zero to establish a new Sustainability Working Group.

Made up of members representing a cross section of industry professionals who are interested in improving sustainable practices, the north-wide peer group will be run by Picture Zero on behalf of Screen Alliance North and is sponsored by Sunbelt Rentals.

Representatives from ITV, BBC, Channel 4, 5, BFI and Heads of Department in the industry will implement sustainable working practices across production companies, freelance crew, new entrants and on all types of productions shooting in the North.

Penny Hall, Skills Cluster Lead at Screen Alliance North, said;

“We continue to work towards our aim of becoming a beacon of sustainable good practice and are establishing this group to allow us to communicate sustainability messages across the industry. Members of the group are at a senior level with significant experience of working on productions in the North. They will be sharing best practice, advocate for sustainable practices and aim to positively influence productions and crew.

The group will meet four times a year to workshop solutions, share resources and use their network to drive change ultimately feeding into a joined-up set of criteria for productions to adhere to when filming anywhere in the North.”

Eve Stollery, Picture Zero, added;

“Reducing the environmental impact of production and putting climate messaging on screen requires action right from the start. The earlier sustainability is considered, the bigger the difference the production can make. We hope through working closely with Screen Alliance North and members of the Sustainability Working Group we can find ways to affect change early in the production process, communicate best practice and share new sustainable ways of working.

We are delighted to be collaborating with Screen Alliance North and I look forward to meeting with members and working towards a greener and more sustainable northern screen industry.”

Jenny Clark, Partnerships and Development Manager at Sunbelt Rentals UK and Ireland, said;

“We are proud to support the Sustainability Working Group in their mission to create a more sustainable future for the screen industry. By partnering with innovators and leaders, we can drive meaningful change that reduces environmental impact and sets new standards for sustainability across the sector. Together, we’re committed to a greener, more responsible future for production, and we look forward to being part of this transformative journey.”

Screen Alliance North are looking for sponsors for various elements of the Sustainability Working Group – meetings, a suppliers list, newsletter and programme of activity. If this is something your company would be interested in, please contact eve@picturezero.com.

International tourism campaigns make North East the star of the show

Posted on by Jo Macleod

North East England is set to benefit from an influx of international tourists thanks to a number of international marketing campaigns, as summer tourism season approaches.

Destination North East England is leading on multiple international marketing campaigns alongside partners including DFDS, Expedia Group, Newcastle International Airport and tourism body VisitBritain.  

The campaigns, which represent hundreds of thousands of pounds of marketing investment are aligned with VisitBritain’s international #StarringGREATBritain programme which focusses on the ‘set jetting’ trend, encouraging tourists to explore famous filming locations and delve into the movies and TV shows filmed in the region.

Throughout the spring, the campaign activity has been showcasing the region around the world, contributing significantly to Destination North East England’s goal of doubling the value of the visitor economy over the next ten years.  

The campaigns aim to showcase all corners of the region, from our breathtaking coastlines, tranquil countryside and our vibrant towns and cities to eager tourists – especially those who are keen to explore some of the region’s iconic film and TV locations, that have lit up the box office in recent years.

The region’s burgeoning screen industry continues to be a huge asset for the tourism sector, with TV shows like ITV’s Vera and blockbusters like premium horror, 28 Years Later (released 20th June 2025), showcasing some of our most iconic landscapes and locations to audiences around the world. As work continues on the landmark Crown Works Studios development on Wearside and more productions seek to point their cameras in the North East’s direction, tourism leaders hope this will inspire more visitors to walk in the footsteps of their favourite TV and film stars.

Chair of Destination North East England John Marshall said: “Telling the North East’s story around the world is key to our ambition to double the value of the visitor economy over the next ten years. By aligning with the Starring GREAT Britain programme to shine a light on our incredible screen sector and through the power of strong partnerships with Visit Britain, DFDS, Expedia and Newcastle International Airport, we look forward to welcoming more visitors to our special part of the world.”

Chief Executive of North East Screen, Alison Gwynn, said:

“The North East has some of the best filming locations in the world and a rich history of iconic films and TV shows that have attracted tourists to the region.”

“Production in the region is already up 89% in the past two years, and our ambition is to see the North East become one of the leading destinations for world class film and TV production in the next 10 years.”

“Aligning our ambition to brilliant initiatives curated by those rock star filming destinations like Alnwick Castle, Durham Cathedral and Cragside, will not only attract more global productions, but also introduce new audiences to some of the hidden gems the region has to offer.”

Pete Akerman, Marketing Director, DFDS said:

“We are excited to be part of this initiative to promote North East England as a premier international tourist destination and to showcase the region’s unique attractions in collaboration with NewcastleGateshead Initiative and VisitBritain. Our Amsterdam-Newcastle route is a vital link between mainland Europe and North East England, providing travellers with a convenient way to explore this beautiful region.”

“This initiative highlights the unique offerings of the North East and strengthens our commitment to enhancing the visitor experience for our northbound passengers. We look forward to welcoming travellers to explore the breathtaking coastlines, charming towns, and iconic film and TV locations that make the North East truly special.”

ITV commissions Torvill & Dean: The Last Dance by North-East based FilmNova

Posted on by Jo Macleod

ITV has announced a one-off documentary Torvill & Dean: The Last Dance, made by Gateshead-based FilmNova.

The 60-minute programme will follow ice skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean as they embark on their last ever tour, ‘Our Last Dance’.

The film explores Torvill and Dean’s career, looking back on their professional highlights, and follows the skating duo as they train and prepare to say goodbye to their fans and dance on ice together one last time.

From from their preparations and last ever television performance on Dancing on Ice; the early gruelling training sessions and first rehearsals for their farewell tour in Aberdeen; through to the iconic first performance of the live tour at Wembley Arena and throughout their shows across the UK – viewers will be with them every step of the way, gaining an intimate insight into what it’s been like to live life as the UK’s greatest ever ice skaters, their 50-year relationship and their desire to leave a lasting legacy.

Jayne Torvill & Christopher Dean said: “We’re delighted that our farewell tour will be the subject of an ITV documentary. The programme will be filled with poignant and joyful moments as we plan, rehearse and perform our final skating journey together – all caught on camera by a film crew following us over many months as we bid farewell to our 50 year ice skating partnership. It’s fitting that this documentary will be broadcast on ITV, our TV home for the last two decades. We hope fans will enjoy this final opportunity to see us skate together.”

FilmNova Executive Producer, Lucy Cutler said: “It is an honour for FilmNova to add to our growing Originals portfolio with this prestigious documentary for ITV and a privilege for us to film with two of British sports greatest ever Olympians as they embark on this extraordinary final tour. Jayne and Chris have allowed our cameras unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to capture every moment as they strive to recreate some of their most memorable routines, supported by an
ensemble cast of world class skaters. ‘Perfection’ is a word often attributed to their iconic performances, and with good reason, but this film will also illustrate the painstaking path necessary to remain the very best, 50 years after it all began. We are thrilled to be working alongside the talented team at Phil McIntyre Entertainments in order to bring to the screen a story for the ages.”

Commissioned by Katie Rawcliffe, Director of Entertainment & Daytime ITV, Katie said: “We are thrilled to be continuing our long working relationship with Torvill and Dean as they embark on their most iconic tour to celebrate their astonishing life, both on and off the ice, a treat for their fans and the ITV audience.”

Have your say on Hartlepool Screen Industries Production Village plans

Posted on by Jo Macleod

Members of the public are being asked to help shape transformational plans for Hartlepool’s growing film and TV industry at a two-day event.

Work is being developed on multi-million pound projects to develop the town as a centre for film and TV production, including a significant expansion of the Northern Studios complex in Lynn Street.

The studio expansion will complement plans led by Hartlepool Borough Council to create a Production Village in the Lynn Street and Whitby Street area and build on the town’s burgeoning film-making pedigree.

Members of the public can find out more about the proposals at a consultation event in Hartlepool on Tuesday 15th April, at The Northern Studios, on Lynn Street, from 12noon until 7pm, and Wednesday 16th April from 12noon to 7pm, at the former H&M unit in Middleton Grange Shopping Centre.

It will be led by consultants Pegasus Planning and Leonard Design, who are working in partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council and Hartlepool Development Corporation, and project leaders will be on hand to explain the plans, answer questions and listen to views.

Hartlepool Borough Council Leader Councillor Brenda Harrison said:

“Creating jobs, driving investment in Hartlepool and delivering regeneration are all key aims of our council and this project delivers all three in an abundance. We are proud to be leading the way with this transformational project for Hartlepool.

“The film and TV industry has been one of Hartlepool’s fastest growing sectors in recent years and we are building on that success and creating more jobs for local people in a wide range of careers.

“We are excited for work to begin but before we get to that point, we are keen to engage with a range of stakeholders including members of the public to get views on the proposals so please do take up this opportunity to get involved and have your say.”

Tees Valley Mayor and Hartlepool Development Corporation Chairman Ben Houchen said:

“We are dedicated to developing Hartlepool as a powerhouse for TV and film production and have made excellent progress so far.

“However we want to go much further to deliver this significant investment, which will bring international productions to the town and create well-paid skilled jobs in Hartlepool.

“It’s vital that local people directly benefit from these projects – which is why we want their involvement in this process, to hear what is planned and help shape these developments.”

Funding for the Northern Studios expansion would be provided under a proposed £15million allocation from the Tees Valley Investment Zone. Tees Valley secured Investment Zone status in 2023, with a total of £160million allocated to drive the creative and digital sectors.

Hartlepool Borough Council’s is leading on the Production Village project, supported by £16.5million from the Levelling Up Fund.

Working with North East Screen, Northern Studios opened in 2022 supported by funding from the Tees Valley Mayor and the Tees Valley Combined Authority in partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council.

It is the only large-scale film and TV studio facility in the North East. Recent productions filmed at the studios include feature film Jackdaw alongside Sky true crime documentaries, ITV drama and comedy productions. It has also been used as a unit base for productions filming on location in Hartlepool.

BBC Comedy’s Smoggie Queens, ITV drama I Fought the Law, and ITV comedy Transaction were also created with the help of the facility.

Northern Studios is based next to the Northern School of Art which provides training and education courses for the creative industries.

North East Screen Chief Executive Alison Gwynn said:

“The North East has been the fastest growing region in the UK for the film and TV industry which has seen an increase in production by 89%.

“The development of the Northern Studios and Production Village in Hartlepool will see the town and surrounding areas become a real hotbed for world class film, digital and TV productions as well as suppliers to the wider creative industries businesses.

“It’ll also provide opportunities for local people who have previously had to leave the region to work in the industry.”

The Northern School of Art Principal, Dr Martin Raby, said:

“This is an important step in the development of The Northern Studios. The Studios have been operating successfully, which is testament to the initial backing from Hartlepool Borough Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority, but the requirements of the sector are progressing.

“The creation of the Production Village and the enhancement of the Studios, supported by the sterling efforts of North East Screen to attract productions, will facilitate much greater screen industry activity in Hartlepool, the Tees Valley and the wider North East, bringing further economic benefits to the town and the region. In addition, it will provide work experience opportunities for students and will boost employment prospects for our graduates.”