Chatham-Kent is opening a new office to help promote the area to the film industry as demand increases for productions shot outside the Toronto area.
The new office will be called FLiCK, which stands for filming locally in Chatham-Kent.
“We’re beautiful, diverse and have so much to offer the film industry,” Mayor Darrin Canniff said.
“Our new film office, FLiCK, will support growth in this exciting industry for our community while also showcasing the unique and beautiful locations that Chatham-Kent has to offer.”
Although separate strikes by Hollywood actors and writers have slowed screen production work in many areas, Canadian locations are popular for movie shoots and other production work.
FLiCK, based at the civic centre, will offer film production companies a range of services to support their projects, such as location scouting, permit assistance and access to local crews, talent and equipment.
An active film industry “plays a vital role in economic development,” for sectors ranging from the hospitality and transportation industries to businesses that provide goods and services for productions, the municipality said.
Tax breaks are also available for productions filmed outside the Greater Toronto Area.
Chatham-Kent will share more information about its new film office, as it becomes available, at its website, chatham-kent.ca.
Daniel Turres, a producer with Pageman Productions, welcomed the latest news.
“Chatham-Kent offers a captivating backdrop for filmmakers, with its diverse landscapes, historic sites and welcoming community,” he said.
“The launch of FLiCK demonstrates the municipality’s dedication to supporting the film industry and attracting creative talent to the area.”