Film crews provide big boost to Exeter's economy
Filming in Exeter has brought in an estimated £140,000 worth of benefits to the city over the last year, new figures have revealed.
TV documentaries, dramas, promotional films and adverts have all been shot in Exeter over the last 12 months.
The City Council liaise directly with production companies wishing to film in Exeter, advising on the suitability of locations, how to gain access and places to stay and eat out at.
Among those filming in Exeter during 2016/17:
- Rosamunde Pilcher TV drama, including courtroom scene filmed at Exeter Guildhall as well as scenes filmed in Custom House and Cathedral Yard
- Gareth Malone’s The Choir
- TV dating show Take Me Out
- Bargain Hunt
- BBC’s Countryfile filmed on Exeter Canal
- BBC 4’s A Very British History
Also exposing Exeter and nearby Powderham Castle to worldwide audiences last May was BBC Radio One’s Big Weekend, which is estimated to have brought in £88,450 to local hoteliers, not to mention an estimated £3.5m economic benefit to the local economy. The global event saw top bands and solo artists from around the world entertain 50,000 music fans over two days. It was broadcast on BBC TV and Radio 1.
The overall £140,000 figure does not take into account financial benefits to the local economy from people visiting the city as a direct result of seeing Exeter on the screen. They do however include money spent by the film crews in hotels, restaurants and shops.
Victoria Hatfield, Exeter City Council’s Economy & Enterprise Manager, said: “Whilst the cost to the local economy is very welcome it is the promotion of Exeter to often major TV and cinema audiences that is the real winner here.
“It is impossible to capture just what financial benefit that is to the local economy but it can’t be underestimated in terms of putting Exeter on the map as a major visitor attraction and get-away destination.”
