A recent survey by the City of Delta shows clear support for continued filming activities in Ladner Village.
That’s according to a memo from engineering director Steven Lan to council, which notes the survey was mailed out to 373 businesses and residents, but only 33 responses were received.
The survey posed a series of questions including whether the presence of a film liaison officer improved their experience when filming takes place in the village and do they feel that a seven-day gap between filming and special events is sufficient.
The survey found 30 of the 33 responses in favour of filming being allowed to continue, but some of respondents were not aware of the new film liaison officer who is paid for by the film production company and is on-site during filming to assist with questions and concerns from the public.
Staff have received positive feedback from those business owners who have interacted with the film liaison officer and believe it will continue to be a benefit during filming in Ladner Village, the memo notes.
Support was also shown for continuing a seven-day gap between filming productions.
Through the survey and subsequent conversations with Creative BC, it was also ascertained that COVID-19 health and safety protocols for productions restricted staff from leaving the filming area.
As such, there wasn't the increase in business for local merchants which normally would occur, Lan’s memo adds.
Lan also notes that the additional feedback received through the survey included comments on a desire for increased notification times for filming, improved compensation from productions and better communications.
The city implemented several changes since teaming up with Creative BC to host a public meeting to address concerns about the film industry a year ago at Harris Barn.
Shows such as ABC’s hit crime series Big Sky and NBC’s Sci-Fi series Debris shot scenes in the village this year.
