Solent funds new research into the South's creative networks

Solent University is looking to collaborate with partners to support an integral research project that will explore ways in which the region can help build, strengthen and expand the local film and media industry and networks.

The project - funded by the University’s Research, Innovation and Knowledge Exchange (RIKE) Awards - aims to develop an evidential basis that will inform strategic conversations about the growth of the industry in the Solent (south central) region of the UK.

Project Lead, Associate Professor and Course Leader in Media Production, Dr Roy Hanney says: “This is an opportunity to start building the kind of creative industry networks the region so badly needs. It will also contribute to an ongoing conversation about the strategic opportunities for the sector and what we as a university can do to be a catalyst for change".

The growth and density of the creative industries around the Solent (south central) region of the UK is currently driving the growth of jobs and graduate opportunities in the region. Screen Skills tells us that there is a shortage of craft skills in the UK and that the universities along the south coast are producing more film production graduates than any other region in the UK.

The project has been developed in close collaboration with key project partner Creative Network South lead Charles Freeman.

He says: “Creative Network South is delighted Solent University is carrying out this research to explore what the creative community in the Solent believe is needed to ensure the continued growth of the sector.”

The project will also partner with Film Expo South (FES) a local organisation that offers brokerage services for the film industry and represents Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Dorset Film Offices. Gillian Tully at project partner Film Expo South, says, "The film industry around the Solent is poised to take advantage of the huge investment in production resources that Disney, Netflix and others are pouring into the UK. We really do need to be ready".

DVMISSION 48 Hour Film Challenge is a third partner, and the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce have offered event management and logistical support.

For further information and to discuss potential partnership opportunities please get in touch with Dr Roy Hanney, Associate Professor Media Production, Department of Media & Communications, Faculty of Business, Law & Digital Technologies E: roy.hanney@solent.ac.uk