Bristol-based regional screen agency South West Screen has completed the transfer of all of its projects and activities into Creative England.

Explaining the move, South West Screen Chairman Kip Meek said: “The past 18 months presented some of the biggest challenges to South West Screen since its formation a decade ago, and we have been confident from an early stage that the best route forward for supporting the South West industry is to become fully part of Creative England. We have ensured that the resources that South West Screen has built up over years – skilled staff, good relationships in the region and carefully husbanded reserves – are protected in the transition to Creative England, so that the South West’;s creative industries continue to be well represented, supported and championed.”

Projects and activities transferred to Creative England are: The Creative Industries iNet: a funding programme designed to support creative businesses across the South West; The Bottle Yard: a production facility in Hengrove, South Bristol; iFeatures: a microbudget filmmaking initiative delivered in partnership with BBC Films, Bristol City Council, Skillset and other partners; White Horse Pictures: a rural cinema  pilot scheme for Wiltshire and the Test Valley funded by the BFI and Wiltshire Council; The European Creative Business Network (an alliance of 11 European partners working together to establish the EU as a more accessible, effective and rewarding market for entrepreneurs.)

Commenting, Creative England Chairman John Newbigin, said: “The importance of keeping a local focus at the heart of Creative England’;s delivery cannot be overstated. We are extremely pleased to take on these projects, along with the knowledge and relationships forged by South West Screen over the years. I can assure the industry this will be built on to provide relevant and targeted support for the South West.”

South West Screen”s transfer is not being replicated nationwide. Regional agencies such as Screen South, Screen Yorkshire, East Midlands Media and Northern Film & Media will continue to operate independently.