Introduction
Kent has long recognised the economic benefits of filming. The increase in employment, tourism and the direct spend into the local economy make a strong case for supporting the development of Kent as a film location. By working together we can make Kent a truly film friendly county ensuring that we maximise the benefits for the citizens of Kent.
Securing filming for the county can only be achieved through the cohesive work of the County and District Councils, Kent Police and private stakeholders. It is only by working together as a whole that we become truly competitive with the rest of the UK, and in particular London.
It is with this in mind that the Kent Film Office has formed the Kent Filming Partnership to promote Kent as a Film Friendly County to the film and television industry. It is designed to enable partners to fulfil their statutory duties whilst communicating fully with production companies wishing to film in Kent, ensuring that any filming taking place is both safe and beneficial to the citizens of our county, as well as fulfilling the industries’ brief.
The Code of Practice, the Filming Guidelines and the Best Practice Guide are intended as the voice of the entire Partnership. On the one hand, to ensure that production companies conduct themselves appropriately and safely within current legislation, and on the other hand, to ensure a cohesive, first class service to any film and television company considering Kent as a location. They were designed at the behest of borough and district councils, as well as private stakeholders, who wished to maximise economic impact, while at the same time minimising disruption and thus enhance Kent’s offering as a friendly and efficient place to film.
I would like to extend my thanks to local district and borough councils, KCC Highways, Kent Police and the Kent County Council legal team for their help in the development of this Partnership Agreement, which is based on research kindly provided by Screen South and Film London. Together we can ensure that Kent becomes a strong creative hub enticing production companies to come and film here again and again.
Peter Gilroy – Chief Executive Kent County Council [2005-2010]
Download the Kent Filming Partnership
