Hertfordshire-led UK screen investment campaign launches programme for inaugural summit

The UK Screen Investment Summit – a national platform championing the UK screen sector through collaboration, investment and innovation – has announced its programme.

Taking place on Wednesday, 26 November at BAFTA Piccadilly, the event, sponsored by Hertfordshire Growth Board, Hertfordshire Futures and the University of Hertfordshire, will convene senior leaders from film and TV production, studio real estate, government, skills and education, to explore how the UK can scale its world-class screen industries.

Part of the UK Screen Investment Programme, the summit’s topics will include studio infrastructure, government financing, developing skills, embedding sustainability, harnessing AI and showcasing the UK’s capabilities to global investors.

Hertfordshire hosts globally renowned companies such as Sky, Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden and Elstree Studios, while trailblazing the sector through local authority and skills leadership.

Mayor Peter Taylor, Chair, Hertfordshire Growth Board, said: “Hertfordshire is proud to stand at the heart of the UK’s screen revolution. With iconic studios, world-class talent and a bold vision for inclusive growth, we are not just supporting the sector - we are shaping its future. The UK Screen Investment Summit is a pivotal moment to showcase how our region is driving innovation, creating high-quality jobs and attracting global investment to power up Britain’s creative economy.”

Adrian Hawkins OBE, Chair of Hertfordshire Futures, Headline Partner for the Summit, said: “The UK Screen Investment Programme’s members have discussed the critical issues facing the sector and how opportunities can be maximised to consolidate and expand the UK’s world-leading screen position. With Hertfordshire at the epicentre of this growth, we are excited to announce the programme and look forward to the summit.”

Hertsmere Borough Council uniquely owns and oversees Elstree Film Studios - home to Star Wars, Indiana Jones, EastEnders and The Crown, and is celebrating its centenary this year.

Since 1996, Elstree has operated as a wholly owned council subsidiary, run independently by a management company and overseen by a Board chaired by council leader, Cllr Jeremy Newmark. In 2022/23, Elstree created 450 jobs, supported 36 National Vocation Qualifications (NVQ), and brought thousands of cast, crew, and visitors into the borough - supporting local shops, restaurants, and transport networks. The council recently partnered with The MBS Group, the world’s largest studio operator, to preserve the studio’s heritage and enhance its global competitiveness.

Cllr Jeremy Newmark, Leader, Hertsmere Borough Council and Vice Chair, Hertfordshire Growth Board said: “Elstree Studios brings prestige, legacy and huge economic and employment benefits to our region.”

Ahead of the summit, an investment dinner will be hosted by Hertfordshire Growth Board at The Grove Hotel, Watford on 3 November. This flagship dinner will bring together senior figures from across the international screen ecosystem including representatives from production clusters, studios, broadcasters, investors, producers, technology innovators, educators, and industry stakeholders. Together, they will explore the opportunities to connect and shape the future of this high growth sector, which plays a critical role in the UK’s economic growth and investment agenda. Visit screeninvestment.co.uk for more information and the programme.

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