National restrictions begin in England from 5th November. Find out about the new restrictions and what you can and cannot do.
The following guidance is provided from UK Government and provides confirmation that COVID-secure film and TV production, in studios and on location, can continue in England under the new regulations. This is detailed below:
Travel and logistics in England:
- If you live in England, you cannot travel overseas or within the UK, unless for work, education or other legally permitted reasons, and you should look to reduce the number of journeys you make.
- However, you can and should still travel for a number of reasons, including travelling to work where this cannot be done from home.
- This exemption covers all aspects of the production process, including scouting and recces. It includes travelling for work purposes within England and internationally. Staying in a hotel for work purposes is permitted.
Production activity in England:
- Filming can continue to take place in the premises of businesses that are closed to the general public due to the new Health Protection Regulations. This includes work on films and television programmes.
- Productions should always consider whether there are local restrictions in place where they are filming.
Production and travel in the UK Nations and Regions (Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales)
- Film and television production is also permitted under current restrictions in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. For travel in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, you should refer to regulations and guidance from relevant devolved authorities.
The British Film Commission Working Safely During COVID-19 in Film and High-end TV Drama Production guidance to reflect these amendments. The update Guidance is available to view and download here