From blockbuster movies to high-end TV dramas, Scotland has become a prime filming location thanks to its rugged scenery, remote landscapes, and unique natural backdrops. But turning these locations into functioning film sets often requires significant temporary work: access roads, platforms, cleared spaces, safe walkways, or altered terrain.
ICD Contracting Ltd works closely with production companies and landowners to deliver these essential landscape changes—without causing lasting damage to the environment. Once filming ends, our priority is to return the land to its original state, often improving it beyond its previous condition.
1. Creating Temporary Landscapes for Film Productions
Film crews need fast access, stable surfaces, and dependable infrastructure, especially in remote Scottish terrain. ICD provides a range of services, including:
- temporary access tracks
- ground protection systems
- set-ready terrain shaping
- drainage improvements
- vegetation clearance (where permitted)
- machinery support and logistics
All works are planned with minimal environmental impact, ensuring the landscape can be fully reinstated once production wraps.
2. Working in Sensitive and Remote Environments
Many filming locations are chosen for their wild, untouched appearance—but this also means they’re environmentally fragile. ICD understands the importance of low-impact practices, carefully managing:
- peatland areas
- forestry sites
- moorlands and heather
- private estates
- SSSI or ecologically sensitive land
Our team tailors each job to the landowner’s requirements, working within environmental guidelines and industry best practices.
3. Restoring the Land After Filming
Once the last camera has rolled, the real work begins. ICD Contracting specialises in reinstating the landscape so it looks as though no production ever took place—or, ideally, better than before.
Restoration work may include:
- re-seeding and replanting vegetation
- repairing ground disturbance
- removing temporary trackways
- reinstating soil and peat profiles
- restoring natural drainage
- clearing and recycling materials
- closing access routes and blending them back into the environment
Every restoration plan is site-specific and agreed with landowners to ensure the land returns to a healthy, stable condition.
4. Leaving the Landscape Better Than Before
Going beyond simple repair, ICD helps landowners take advantage of the opportunity to improve the land. After filming, we can incorporate:
- improved drainage systems
- better access routes
- re-established vegetation or habitats
- erosion control measures
- reinstated peatland or bog restoration
- tidier, more usable areas for future land management
This “better than before” approach ensures long-term value for the landowner and avoids the environmental issues that can arise when landscapes are left damaged.
5. Why ICD Contracting Is the Right Partner for Film Productions
Production companies choose ICD for our:
- fast turnaround times
- strong communication with landowners
- experience in remote rural environments
- high safety and environmental standards
- ability to deliver and remove infrastructure with minimal impact
- commitment to full land restoration
Filming may be temporary, but the landscape is permanent—and ICD ensures it stays protected.
Shaping the Perfect Set, Then Returning the Land to Nature
With Scotland attracting more film and TV projects than ever, responsible landscape management is crucial. ICD Contracting Ltd provides the perfect balance: enabling productions to create the scenes they need while ensuring the land returns to full health afterwards.
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