Multiple requests made by producers to film in Warrington

Following an exciting month for the town where we saw Sky One film scenes of a popular comedy series among the streets of Orford in January, Warrington Borough Council has confirmed it ‘welcomes crews’ to choose Warrington as a backdrop for future shows.

A WBC spokesperson said: “We always welcome film crews making enquiries to film in Warrington, the town has so many diverse and attractive locations that make a great backdrop for TV shows and films, from period dramas to comedies.”

Across the decades, various parts of the borough have been chosen as filming locations with the most recent being the Sky One comedic drama series Brassic.

Sky One film crews on Orford Park filming Brassic in January 2024 (Image: Supplied)
Other well-known shows that have brought their film crews to our characteristic town have included Peaky Blinders, Coronation Street, Netflix drama The Irregulars and much more.

A spokesperson for the council highlighted some of the benefits of having Warrington splashed onto the big screen.

They said: “Filming in Warrington is another good way to put Warrington on the map, and the local aspects of filming are also rewarding when residents might be able to spot Warrington landmarks they know when they feature on television as well.”

It also brings benefits to the town’s economy and profile, with fans of these shows visiting the areas to see where scenes took place.

BBC thriller Rules of the Game was filmed in Great Sankey (Image: Supplied)
Discussing the process of applying to film a show in Warrington, they explained that the this requires ‘a number of insurance and legal documents’ that need to be supplied before consideration of the request can be fully taken.

Producers will need to complete an online request form here. This details charges that may apply to film makers, for example some commercial film makers may be charged an administration fee of £75.

Meanwhile a larger production requiring a full filming licence can cost a minimum of £150.

Plus, additional fees may be incurred if film sets and temporary structures need to be built, or if road closures are required to carry out the filming.

Council services will then, if the request is successful, work to accommodate film crews in their needs amongst the community.

Disney series The Evermoor Chronicles was filmed partially at Walton Hall in 2015 (Image: Supplied)
“This could mean environment/parks services helping with filming in open spaces, highways services closing or diverting roads if there are requests to film on roads around Warrington, or property services supporting filming in buildings as necessary.”

While the number of requests for filming cannot be given, it has confirmed that ‘multiple’ enquiries are made each year, both through the film request form and from universities with students requesting to film projects in the area.

Creative England provides free production support and filming locations for film and TV productions looking to shoot in England, outside London.  The council has signed a Film Friendly Charter with Creative England and neighbouring councils to make Cheshire ‘film-friendly’.