A MOVE to establish Ireland’s first virtual film production hub in the Roxboro area of Limerick City by the end of next year has been included in the recently published Mid-West Regional Enterprise Plan.
It is envisaged that the hub will form part of the multi-functional Creative and Innovation Industries Centre planned for the Limerick Enterprise Development Partnership (LEDP) premises on the Roxboro Road.
The project will include appropriate space to facilitate and encourage the growth of local sub suppliers to the film industry such as prop making, lighting, location services and set construction.
Its inclusion in the Regional Enterprise Plan will enhance the vision for the Mid-West to be recognised as the best equipped region in Europe for complete film production facilities.
The concept was first mooted as part of LEDP’s Strategic Plan 2021-2026 and a vacant 33,000 sq ft unit at the LEDP Innovation Hub has been specifically identified for the virtual film production hub.
LEPD chief executive Niall O’Callaghan said they wanted to increase their enterprise and employment creation activities and spark opportunities.
“Gaining this acknowledgement and support through the Regional Enterprise Plan gives us the impetus to deliver this strategic project by the final quarter of 2023, Mr O’Callaghan explained.
“We are currently out to tender for the feasibility study, supported by Enterprise Ireland, and we look forward to taking the project through to completion and seeing jobs and pathways created for people who want to enter the film industry.”
“The purpose of the Regional Enterprise Plan is to create the conditions for entrepreneurs to start and scale their businesses, encourage new investment and business growth, and lead to increased employment in every region,” Mr O’Callaghan added.
