Scotland has confirmed plans to develop a new television industry event in Edinburgh, following the Edinburgh TV Festival’s planned move to Manchester after 51 years. The initiative aims to retain Edinburgh’s role as an August meeting point for global screen and creative industries, linking television with the city’s established film, comedy, fringe and book festivals.

Screen Scotland funded initial work completed in early summer 2026, and former Edinburgh TV Festival creative director Rowan Woods will lead the next development phase through the Fringe Society. Consultation with festivals, venues, broadcasters, platforms, creators and publishers is due to finish in early spring 2027, ahead of a pilot event next August; it may compete directly with the new Manchester festival. Richard Gadd attended the launch, while Screen Scotland also plans a new Lynda Myles Debate to honour the festival co-founder.