The site, previously used as barracks and an ordnance depot, spans 34 acres at Forthside and is being repurposed into “Stirling Studios.” The main features will include the refurbishment of an existing 160,000 square foot building to serve as the main studio hub, alongside works to deliver key pieces of infrastructure such as new roads, power supply, drainage, and communications. The full redevelopment is due to be completed by March next year.
At present, the former military site offers 100,000 square feet of studio space and an additional 110,000 square feet allocated for production activities, logistics, and office use. The intention is to attract a range of productions from major players, such as Netflix and Amazon, but the site will also remain accessible for smaller Scottish filmmakers and production companies.
Stirling Council estimates that the new studios could support up to 4,000 jobs over the next 25 years, spanning roles in lighting, set design, production management, and more. The project forms part of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal, a £214 million partnership that also involves the University of Stirling and the Scottish Government. Local leaders are keen to ensure lasting economic and social benefits for Stirling and beyond, with a focus on skills development and broadening the local talent pool through partnerships with Screen Scotland and education providers.
Stirling Council leader Gerry McGarvey said “Our aim is to transform this former military site into a dynamic and vibrant location for film, high-end TV production and other creative industries, and put Stirling at the centre of this industry in Scotland, delivering wide-ranging and lasting economic and social benefits.”
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Both major film studios and smaller independent filmmakers have responded positively to the news. Leaders at Stirling Council describe the feedback from the industry as “hugely positive,” with aspirations to put Stirling at the heart of Scotland’s film and high-end TV production sector. If successful, the scheme is set to offer an encouraging future for young creatives entering an often-uncertain industry.
The site at Forthside, with its central location and good transport links, has previously hosted productions such as Sky Atlantic’s “Lockerbie” drama and is poised to become a regional creative powerhouse.
