Filming Generates £4.6m for Local Economy

FifeScreen+TayScreen is pleased to announce the release of its annual report for 2023/24, showcasing a successful year for the screen industry in the Fife Tay region with figures showing the media industry's multi-million pound contribution to the economy of the Fife and Tay region. The office also supported ground-breaking work that was a finalist in the Screen International Global Production Awards at the Cannes Film Festival for a UK first – virtual production over 5G between Dundee and Manchester. 

The figures show continuing resilience for film and TV production in 2023-24 despite challenges such as writer and actor strikes in the USA that have directly affected production in the UK and employment of freelance crew. Production spend reached £2.3 million, generating economic impact of approximately £4.6 million. This highlights the significant contribution that the screen industry makes to the local economy and the wider region.  

Key Achievements in 2024 

• Production Activity: the office facilitated over 100 productions, contributing an estimated £2.4 million to the local economy. The office recorded a total of over 400 filming days at locations across the region. Projects ranged from feature films and television dramas to commercials and independent productions. 
• Diverse Locations Utilised: The region’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and urban settings attracted high-profile projects. These productions not only boosted the local economy but also showcased the region’s unique character on the global stage. 
• Support for Regional Business: the office connected regional businesses with opportunities in the screen industry. 
• Sustainability: the office implemented eco-friendly production guidelines towards support Scottish and UK initiatives to ensure the industry’s growth aligns with environmental goals. 
• The sector supports jobs and livelihoods including freelance crew and services that are integral to production such as hospitality and accommodation. It plays a major part in promoting the region for economic and social development and attracting tourism.   

Some production highlights 

The report features several exciting highlights. Time-travel romantic drama series ‘Outlander’, returned for Season 8 and Prequel, Blood of My Blood that filmed across the region. There was filming for the final series of Netflix show, The Crown. The region’s attraction for crime on screen continued with production of Val McDermid’s Karen Pirie Season 2. James McAvoy, star of productions such as X-Men and Atonement, made his directorial debut in Dundee with California Schemin’. Iconic, global fashion brand, Christian Dior brought an A-list event and fashion shoots to Perthshire. This further solidifies the Fife Tayside region's position as a preferred destination for high-profile productions, drawing attention and visitors from around the world.  

Studios/Virtual Production and Remote Broadcasting 

FifeScreen+TayScreen has continue to collaborate with the Tay Cities Deal project, Tay5G Virtual Production and Julie Craik has been appointed to the national board of the £76m CoSTAR programme supported by the UK Government. Virtual Production is an exciting evolution of greenscreen. Real environments or digitally created experiences are projected in specialist studios so that cast and crew can see and interact with them in real time. The office also supported the Tay5G project that saw Neutral Wireless and QTV advancing 5G enabled, live production technology in the region.  

Dundee’s Fair Work, Economic Growth & Infrastructure Convener, Steven Rome says: “As a city renowned for its creativity and innovation, Dundee is proud to support the ongoing success of Tayscreen in showcasing our region as a vibrant hub for film, television, and creative production. This year’s Tayscreen annual report highlights the collaborative spirit that make our area such an attractive destination for production. Dundee continues to play a vital role in this industry, bringing economic opportunities and raising our profile on the global stage.” 

Cllr Altany Craik, Spokesperson for Fife Council Finance, Economy & Strategic Planning says: “The film industry continues to play a vital role in Fife’s economy. The support that FifeScreen provides makes it easy for production companies to choose Fife as a location to film audience favourites such as Outlander and The Crown. The effects of having Fife showcased in this way must not be underestimated in terms of the visitor economy and inward investment. Embracing new technology will ensure that FifeScreen+TayScreen continues to be relevant and attractive to this vibrant industry.” 

Councillor Eric Drysdale, Convener of Perth & Kinross Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, says: “Perth & Kinross is proud to be a part of the TayScreen network, which continues to shine a spotlight on our region’s stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and thriving creative industries. This year’s Tayscreen annual report underscores the significant contribution our area has made to the screen sector, attracting high-profile productions and delivering economic benefits to local communities. From our picturesque countryside to our vibrant towns, Perth & Kinross offers a wealth of opportunities for filmmakers and content creators. We remain committed to supporting the creative industries, recognising their vital role in driving cultural and economic growth in our region.” 

The report also emphasises the positive impact of screen tourism on the local economy. While tourism services faced challenges due to increased operating costs and the cost-of-living crisis, screen tourism continued to play a crucial role in raising awareness and influencing destination and economic development decisions. The allure of seeing Scotland on screen remains a significant factor for up to 40% of visitors to the region with the impact reported to last for at least four years. 

FifeScreen+TayScreen is committed to supporting and promoting the region as a premier filming location, as well as leveraging the power of screen tourism to boost the local economy. As part of its mission, the office continues to collaborate with industry partners, local businesses, and stakeholders to create a ‘film-crew friendly’ environment for filmmaking. The success of the past year reflects the continued collective effort and dedication of all engaging with the screen industry in the Fife Tay region. 

Looking forward, TayScreen remains determined to build on this success and further solidify the region's reputation as a vibrant hub for screen production. By attracting more high-profile productions, nurturing local talent, and fostering collaborations, TayScreen aims to continue driving economic growth and showcasing the unique charm and beauty of the region to audiences worldwide. 

• Share this page:
• Share On Twitter
• Share On Facebook
• Share On LinkedIn