Film Production in County Wicklow Continues to Expand with New Historical Drama

A new historical drama project is set to begin filming in County Wicklow, further cementing the region’s status as a primary hub for international screen production. According to [Screen Ireland](https://www.screenireland.ie/), the production will utilize local landscapes and studio infrastructure, contributing to the continued growth of the Irish film industry’s regional footprint.

Wicklow’s Role in the Irish Film Industry

County Wicklow, frequently referred to as the “Hollywood of Europe,” remains a central location for major historical productions. The region’s geography, which includes the Wicklow Mountains and historic estates, provides a versatile backdrop for period pieces.

The [Wicklow Film Office](https://wicklow.ie/living/services/film-office/) confirms that the area’s proximity to Dublin, combined with established studio facilities like Ashford Studios, attracts large-scale international crews. This latest production follows a trend of high-budget historical dramas choosing the county for its combination of tax incentives under the [Section 481 film relief](https://www.revenue.ie/en/companies-and-charities/reliefs-and-exemptions/film-relief/index.aspx) program and experienced local production crews.

Economic Impact and Regional Development

The arrival of a major historical drama typically triggers significant local spending. According to data from [Screen Ireland’s 2023 industry report](https://www.screenireland.ie/news/screen-ireland-announces-2023-production-activity), the Irish audiovisual sector continues to be a major contributor to the national economy, with regional filming playing a vital role in local job creation.

For County Wicklow, the benefits extend beyond direct employment. Local businesses, including catering, transport, and construction services, see an increase in demand during the pre-production and shooting phases. The consistency of production in the area has allowed for the development of a specialized local workforce, reducing the need for productions to import talent for technical roles.

Why Wicklow Remains a Top Choice

The preference for Wicklow over other international locations often comes down to three factors:

* Tax Incentives: The Irish government’s Section 481 tax credit offers up to 32% of eligible expenditure, making it highly competitive globally.
* Infrastructure: The existence of purpose-built studios allows for complex set construction and interior shooting that would be difficult to achieve on location alone.
* Established Network: The [Wicklow Film Office](https://wicklow.ie/living/services/film-office/) provides streamlined permitting and logistical support, which is a critical consideration for international producers managing tight schedules.

Future Outlook for Irish Location Shooting

As the global demand for historical and period content remains high on streaming platforms, Ireland is positioned to maintain its market share. Recent government updates to the [Section 481 scheme](https://www.revenue.ie/en/companies-and-charities/reliefs-and-exemptions/film-relief/index.aspx) have aimed to ensure that the industry remains attractive to both independent filmmakers and major studio projects.

While specific details regarding the cast and title of this new production remain under wraps, the commencement of shooting in Wicklow indicates that the region’s long-standing reputation as a premier filming destination continues to hold firm. Further announcements regarding the project are expected as the production moves into its primary photography phase.