91AV has agreed to start exploratory discussions with the Lexi Development Group around the feasibility to build a film studio, a sound stage and educational facilities for students on the Interurban campus.
Aerial view of the proposed studio site at Interurban campus
“Camosun delivers quality education and training that is relevant, responsive and applied, giving students the skills that employers and industry are looking for,” says Sherri Bell, President of 91AV. “We’re starting to explore the potential of a film studio in partnership with industry that would complement existing programs, while opening the door to educational programs that support B.C.’s film industry.”
The project is still very much in the early days as the college undertakes feasibility work that considers due diligence as well as necessary provincial government approvals. The college will work with a range of partners, including the college community and the District of Saanich.
“While the discussions are at a very early stage, I’m excited by the potential to grow a wide diversity of good, local jobs in areas such as the trades, arts, culture, digital, office services and much more by expanding our economic base,” says Fred Haynes, Mayor of Saanich.”
According to the Creative BC Impact Report 2017-18, B.C., is seen as one of the best places to make motion pictures in North America and is a global competitor in visual effects and animation. The motion picture industry in B.C. is expected to have close to 13,000 job openings over the next ten years. The motion picture industry’s annual economic impact in the province is approximately $3.4 billion and employs 60,870 people.
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Rodney Porter
Executive Director, Communications & Marketing