Media centre

Tuesday 28 Apr 2009

ON TRACK FOR A STARRING ROLE

Region & Route:

National

Network Rail has launched a new website www.networkrail.co.uk/filming promoting its portfolio of filming locations. “Train stations and the railway have always played a supporting role in film and television and we plan to continue this longstanding partnership into the future.” Network Rail’s commercial filming manager Rachel Whitburn commented at last night’s official launch of its specialist service at The Grand in St Pancras International station.

Network Rail has developed a specialist department to handle the hundreds of filming opportunities which happen each year, and launched a new website to inform the broadcast and production industries about the wide variety of stunning and unique locations that are available to film at.

With 18 of the largest stations in the country, 40,000 bridges, 20,000 miles of track and over 8,000 commercial properties, Network Rail has already played its part in some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters such as The Bourne Ultimatum and Britain’s favourite television dramas such as Spooks and The Bill.

Patrick Stuart, location manager for Spooks says: “I have always found that filming with Network Rail is an all round great experience. From initial recess to filming large set pieces the set up is efficient, well managed and flexible. The scope of locations available on Network Rail property is wider than one might think- tunnels, walkways, offices they’ve got the lot”.

Rachel Whitburn, commercial filming manager for Network Rail says: “Network Rail is proud to have such a unique location portfolio to offer the industry. We have some of the best filming locations in Britain and are really enthusiastic about playing a part and providing the perfect backdrop to many exciting production shoots whether that is films, dramas, photo-shoots or commercials.

“As a specialist department we have a professional service that offers competitive prices, loyalty rates and a single point of contact to make the process as straightforward as possible. Additionally, the filming service provides a great opportunity for Network Rail to raise extra funding and plough the profits back into the railway.”