Film Edinburgh supports new Charter to boost East Lothian productions

With the eyes of world’s film industry on Scotland for the Edinburgh International Film Festival, neighbouring region, East Lothian is taking a significant step forward to promote itself as a film-friendly location for future productions with the launch of its first ever Film Charter.

Approved by East Lothian Council this week, the brand new Film Charter, supported by Film Edinburgh, will simplify processes and increase clarity for filmmakers. It is an important demonstration of East Lothian’s collaborative approach and commitment to encourage new filming in the region.

Sitting alongside a new Code of Practice for Filmmakers, the new charter also outlines in detail the key responsibilities for Film Edinburgh in its role as East Lothian’s regional film commission. This includes facilitating requests and offering practical advice and support to all productions of every scale in the area.

Rosie Ellison, Film Manager for Film Edinburgh explained: “The Film Charter gives clarity to the crucial structures within East Lothian that will ensure all filming enquires are dealt with as efficiently as possible. It widens our film-friendly commitment in the Edinburgh city-region to take in not only the city but also Edinburgh’s Coast and Countryside.

“The East Lothian Film Charter brings the region in line with the updated charter that Film Edinburgh introduced for the city last year. Industry feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and we expect future productions in East Lothian will likewise benefit.”

Councillor John McMillan, East Lothian Council’s spokesperson for Economic Development and Tourism, said: “This is the first time East Lothian has had a Film Charter and it’s a big step in cementing our film-friendly reputation. We now have the framework in place to work together to support future projects on every level and can guarantee filmmakers a welcoming reception.”

Both the Film Charter and Code of Practice are now available to download from the Permits section on this web site.

Last year, Film Edinburgh dealt with a total of 93 film and TV enquiries, on behalf of East Lothian. This resulted in 77.5 days of filming in 2014 and generated over £660,000 direct economic impact for the region, a 40% rise in spend compared to 2013.

High profile East Lothian productions include films such as The Railway Man, Under the Skin and Young Adam, as well as television shows including Outlander, Rebus and BBC’s Case Histories.