Movie Set ClapboardAbout a month ago Abbotsford’s economic development office took over control of marketing the city as a destination for film crews.

Economic development executive director Wendy Dupley says they’re not quite at the level of the Chilliwack Film Commission in terms of staffing.

“We’re just starting to be a little more proactive in our engagement with this sector, recognizing the potential and the opportunities to bring more filming to the City of Abbotsford, and the economic impacts of doing that sort of thing here.”

Dupley says the department has begun advertising in a filmakers publication and is working to streamline the permit process to make Abbotsford a prime option.

She says one of the keys is finding interesting locations around the community.

“For instance we’ve got interest in an unused water tower here. Another scout is looking for a four lane highway where they can shut down and film a road accident. So we’re working with those scouts right at the moment.”

Dupley says a major production is considering filming around Tradex, but she can’t say much about it unless a deal is secured.