An exciting new media hub is to launch in Blackburn aimed at inspiring the next generation of film and TV producers.

The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) said it wants to bolster film and television production jobs after establishing a 'vibrant screen production hub' in the borough.

The university said it will spearhead the £750,000 UK Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) project in Blackburn with Darwen, aimed at training the 'next generation of television and film production staff' to meet industry demands.

The Blackburn with Darwen Screen Strategy aims to provide young people with the necessary skills in scripted film and high-end television production to connect with the wider industry.

Amid industry challenges, the UK film industry remains poised for significant growth, with 2025 expected to be a boom year thanks to major investments.

Disney’s recent announcement of a $5bn investment in UK and Europe film production underscores the potential for rapid expansion.

Associate Dean for the School of Arts and Media at the University of Central Lancashire, Paresh Parmar said: “With the demand for content growing, there aren’t enough people with the relevant production skills to keep up.

“This programme not only provides local people with technical skills but also prepares students for the real-world challenges they’ll face, especially in a freelance-driven industry, getting them ready to connect to the wider industry.”

The programme will initially focus on Blackburn, supported by the University of Central Lancashire’s facilities in Preston. 

The Blackburn Youth Zone will introduce under-16s to careers in the media industry, while Blackburn College and University of Central Lancashire students will collaborate on joint projects, supported by work placements at Film Buddy and Pixeleyed Pictures.

Additionally, MR Helix, which has laid the groundwork for Futures in Film, a registered CIC (Community Interest Company), will provide emerging talent in Lancashire with access and placements at Pinewood Studios. 

The initiative was kick-started when Pixeleyed Pictures who teamed up with Blackburn with Darwen Council. 

Nina Karwalska from Pixeleyed said: “The Futures in Film Academy has provided training to students from Blackburn College and the University of Central Lancashire, enabling them to gain industry knowledge and on-set experience. 

“Some students have secured placements on major productions like the upcoming BBC's Wolf Hall series 2, Paramount+’s Curfew, and Knives Out 3. Our technical production training ensures that we meet the stringent requirements of respected industry bodies such as the BSC, ACO, Production Guild UK, AMPS, and the Grips branch.”

MR Helix is acclaimed in the TV (HETV) Drama and Film industry for its work in technical innovation and the development of dynamic camera gimbal motion systems. 

Their expertise and prototypes have been tested and showcased on productions such as Star Wars: Rogue One, the Oscar winner The Favourite, BBC’s Luther, and Wolf Hall.

Rizwan Wadan from MR Helix said: “There is little awareness of the role of engineering and technology in the HETV Drama and Film industry.

"We’re working closely with our industry partners and the fellows at the Royal Academy of Engineering to provide invaluable industry knowledge, access to leading technologies, and establish technical innovation hubs. 

"Our technical training, developed with direct input from industry partners and supporters, will create vital connections and gateways into the Film and TV industry.”

Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Phil Riley, said: “We’re a forward-thinking council which uses its strong partnerships to forge exciting opportunities like this – opportunities you’d expect to see in major cities. 

"We want to inspire our youngsters – open their eyes to the potential for careers in the local, film and HETV industry and equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. 

"We look forward to seeing this scheme develop - building on the success we saw with the pilot project.”

Curriculum Manager for Film and Television Production at Blackburn College, Richard McKenny added: “This is an incredible opportunity and a chance to shine a spotlight on the amazingly talented young people that our county produces. 

"It opens the door to higher levels of training that will give them industry-leading skills will put them leaps and bounds ahead of their competition while providing them with the opportunities to retain talent in the town.”