Film development in the regions is vital for the industry

The film community is waiting with anticipation for the announcement from the British Film Institute (BFI) about their five-year plan to develop the UK film industry, film culture and film going. Following their consultation document New Horizon's for UK Film, many believe the BFI's proposals will include a call for a "UK-wide network of virtual and physical film hubs."

If this is the case it has to be applauded. The devil will be in the detail as to what these hubs will deliver, but I think the notion of a UK-wide network is a major step in recognising that film in its many manifestations – producing, making and watching – is a national activity.

It's always been easy to think of the film industry as London-based, with the gravitational pull of the capital as a natural phenomenon. Historically that has always been the case.

Yet a major shift is possible. Digital formats and the internet has fundamentally changed and challenged that assumption of the "centre" – work can now be made and distributed from where you're based; they can come to you, rather than vice-versa.

I was struck by a recent profile on Paignton-based singer, songwriter and film-maker Cosmo Jarvis, who as well as having released three albums and numerous singles at the age of 23 has also made short and feature films. For me he exemplifies the new phenomenon of talent coming from outside of the centre and establishing their creative profile without taking the traditional London apprenticeship.

In this decentralised and dynamic digital landscape it becomes more imperative to have equally dynamic UK wide networks of venues capable of responding to, nurturing and developing creative talent. This is not only about responding to the needs of local and regional talent, but also creating dynamic local and regional cultures and creative communities.

At Watershed in Bristol we have just launched FilmWorks, a networked regional talent development initiative with partners in Sheffield (Showroom) and Nottingham (Broadway) and funding from Creative England. This is a groundbreaking initiative in talent development with live talks and events across the partner venues while also working with locally-based film producers to train and mentor.

The aim is to develop regionally-based film talent and help generate self supporting cross regional networks that share skills and experiences – critically fostering a creative local environment where talent can grow without feeling that need to move to the capital.

Another element of the scheme which I'm excited about is the sharing of skills across production and exhibition. As we all know, thanks to digital the old models are being challenged. The film industry has always been based on the separate factions of production, distribution and exhibition – there was very little exchange of ideas and practice between these sectors. Instead, the only thing that ever really changed hands would be money: what deal was everyone getting?

Now, however, those boundaries are becoming more porous and discussions are becoming more interesting. In my day job I show films at Watershed cinema in Bristol, and these films are supplied by distributors. In the past I would have no contact with the makers unless the distributor had their film to promote. Now I am approached on a regular basis by directors who have just finished a film and want me to look at showing it or producers who are getting a project together and want me to discuss it.

The wonderful documentary mission to lars is a recent example of a film that fell below the radar of the traditional distribution model. The film's producer Kate Spicer approached me directly – with some helpful social media lobbying from friends – and I had a memorable packed screening and event in the summer. That connection between the makers and the audience, between producers and exhibitors is an area ripe for sharing.

The first event for film works takes place on Wednesday 19 September at Encounters Short Film and Animation Festival. On the panel will be Bristol-based Academy award-winning film director, producer and Aardman co-founder Peter Lord talking about developing an idea into a film script, and alongside him will be Bristol-based producer Alison Sterling, who will be talking about the development of her first feature Flying Blind.

Future film-making, like other creative practices, will increasingly be locally-based with potential global reach. It is important that we get a UK wide network of supportive and resourced venues to help nurture, platform and profile emerging local and regional talent.