Concerns raised over future of Dragon Studios
As a TV show filmed in Wales is cancelled after one season, Welsh Conservatives have raised questions over the future of Dragon Studios in Pencoed.
In September, Labour’s Business Minister announced the Welsh government had worked closely with accountants to secure the lease for Fox 21 Television Studios at the Welsh site.
The company’s production – ‘The Bastard Executioner’ – had already been filming there but its cancellation has been announced today.
Another project recently announced by Welsh government – The Crow – has yet to start filming in Wales following production delays.
Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Culture and Heritage, Suzy Davies AM, said:
‘Both the new lease and the start of filming for this show were trumpeted by the Welsh government and communities will rightly question the implications of this series cancellation.
‘Today’s news clearly poses questions over Fox 21’s long-term future and the minister should clarify what discussions she has had with the company and how much public money may be at stake.
‘Obtaining information from the Minister – along with details surrounding investment at Pinewood – remains an impossible task and more transparency is desperately required.
‘While the creative industries in Wales have recently been hugely successful, it’s clear that this sector can often be rocky and the minister has a duty to explain how she will move forward – at Dragon in particular.
‘The studio had long been dormant before this year’s welcome announcements and all efforts must be made to ensure a propserous future. ‘
