Star Wars spin-off filming at beauty spot axed by National over health and safety fears

FILMING on a Star Wars spin-off has been axed by National Trust killjoys because of health and safety fears.

The crew of Andor set up camp at a disused quarry where they filmed the first series in 2021 — but were then told rain has increased the chances of rockfalls.

They were forced to pack up and go — while locals continue to visit the site without issue.

Disney used 200-year-old Winspit Quarry, then owned by a farmer, as the HQ of character Saw Gerrera for the show, starring Diego Luna.

Episodes cost up to £20million each to make.

But after spending thousands getting ready for the latest shoot, they were warned off by a geologist from the National Trust — which bought the land along with a swathe of the Jurassic Coast last year.

A source in the village told The Celeb Report: “They had all their trucks and trailers and were told they couldn’t film because of health and safety reasons.

“The crews seemed quite cross that they had wasted their time.”

Local builder Steve Young said: “They had spent a good couple of days bringing their kit down the narrow path to the quarry.”

Visitor Anne Simmonds, 65, added: “I’ve been coming here since I was a girl.

“If it’s that dangerous then everyone should be warned about it.”

Generations have used the site to explore caves, climb rock faces or just enjoy picnics and dog walks.

The site — described by nearby Swanage tourist office as “otherworldly” — has also been used to film Doctor Who.

Yesterday, the quarry remained open to the public.

But a National Trust spokeswoman confirmed: “The planned filming has been cancelled due to safety concerns following the recent turbulent weather, which has increased the risk of rockfalls and landslips.”

Tracey Churcher, the National Trust’s General Manager for Purbeck, added: “We ask people not to visit Winspit Quarry until our experts are confident it is safe to visit again.”

Disney and Lucasfilm were approached for comment.