East Antrim backdrop for new TV productions

Television crews were spotted at Whitehead seafront and Woodburn dam, sparking speculation on social media.

The BBC confirmed that filming at Whitehead last Friday was linked to the upcoming two-part drama, Awakening.

While there has been no official confirmation over the production at Woodburn dam, some Facebook users suggested it could be part of award-winning series, Line of Duty.

A photograph taken in the area, which is popular with walkers and joggers, appeared to show a police vehicle partly submerged in the water during one scene.

However, the decision to grant production crews access to the area around the dam has drawn criticism from some, including running group, We Run Wild NI.

Posting on their Facebook page, the group claimed that site-owners NI Water had not allowed athletics events to take place at the rural location due to the risk associated with Covid-19.

Responding, NI Water said: “NI Water has a recreation and access policy which allows the public to apply for use of our land for filming, events and sporting activities. NI Water considers each application on a case by case basis provided they attached all relevant paperwork, including indemnity insurance etc.

“Anyone who wants to use NI Water land is welcome to apply via this policy and like all applications, will be fairly considered. During the Covid-19 pandemic we have also assessed applications based on the potential for large numbers of people congregating, attending and the opportunity for Covid-19 protocols to be adhered to.

“Over the years our land has been host to many successful events, although there have been incidences in the past where unofficial sporting events have been organised which have not been through the application process and it is on these occasions, we have denied access.”

The arrival of television crews has bolstered east Antrim’s reputation as a sought-after filming location.

The area is well-known for its connections to global hit Game of Thrones, which saw numerous scenes filmed at Magheramorne Quarry.

The series also shot material at Sallagh Brae outside Larne, now the location of a purpose-built film set for ‘The Northman’, starring Australian actress Nicole Kidman.