Film industry a significant asset to county
Wednesday March 03 2010
FILM PROMOTION is a key focus for Wicklow County Council according to Director of Services, Tom Murphy.
He said that through the County Wicklow Film Commission the council was working hard to promote and market the county as a film location. He said the commission supported the growth of the film industry in the county and helped film-makers to create a film friendly environment and to maximise tourism spin off.
Mr. Murphy said the local film industry was a significant asset to the county pointing out that 50 per cent of all film making in Ireland takes places in County Wicklow.
He said 'The Tudors' which was shot in Ardmore Studios, Bray for four years had provided employment for 1,500 crew members and temporary employment for 6,000 extras. Viewed by over 10 million people worldwide the show expended over €78 million.
Mr. Murphy said that planning permission had been granted to World 2000 for a change of use in Ashford which will pave the way for ' a unique enormous energy efficient sound studios.
'There are two potential projects in the pipeline for 2010 with the potential to create more than 500 jobs. It will allow Ireland to attract large scale film projects that previously couldn't be accommodated here', he said.
Mr. Murphy said as far as the council was concerned 'Wicklow is very much open for business and we are committed to supporting business in the county.'
