It’s been reported Star Wars is set to return to Kerry to film in a new scenic location for its next movie.
Having previously shot a number of scenes on Skellig Michael, the film franchise is set to shoot on the western tip of the Dingle Peninsula in Ceann Sibeal
Contractors are reportedly installing a 1.5km metal road in the area to aid the transport of film crew and gear up steep slopes for Episode VIII.
Back again: Star Wars Episode VII will film in Kerry once again | TWITTER
Despite the Irish Film Board declining to comment, it is believed filming will kick off in May and last for around two weeks, according to the Mirror.
However RTE reported that the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht confirmed a film permit had been granted.
The department stated they “approved a proposal for a limited amount of filming by a film production company on Ceann Sibeal on the Dingle Peninsula later this year”.
The department released a statement assuring filming will not pose any danger to the local area after there was controversy over shooting on Skellig Michael by environmental groups.
Kerry bound: The film franchise previously shot on Skellig Michael | TWITTER
“The Department’s National Parks and Wildlife Service, having examined the proposal in detail, is satisfied that filming will not adversely affect the integrity of the SPA, nor have an adverse impact on biodiversity,” it read.
“Permission for filming has been granted subject to strict conditions. A Departmental habitats expert will be present during the shoot.”
Meanwhile, landowners in Ceann Sibel have already signed agreements for filming the Hollywood blockbuster – while a number of hotels and self-catering accommodation in the area have been booked up for crew.
Due for release in December 2017, Irish star Domhnall Gleeson reprise his role as General Hux.
