Kent has landed a leading part in the film industry after a new law came into power today.

The Parliamentary bill to assist filming in the county received Royal Assent.

It means Kent County Council is now the only UK authority outside London with the power to temporarily close roads for filming.

The council had asked the Government to push through the bill to promote investment in the county.

It was passed earlier than expected and without objection.

Kevin Lynes, Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: "This is fantastic news.

"Filming brings a serious income into the Kent economy, so we're absolutely committed to nurturing the industry and making Kent a national and international contender for filming.

"Our wonderfully diverse county has everything from dramatic landscapes and historical settings to modern, urban backdrops and the new law means we can offer filmmakers an even better package."

The Kent Film Office, run by Kent County Council, has generated more than £14million for the county's economy in the four years since it was set up.

It has attracted projects including BBC drama Emma featuring Michael Gambon and Is Anybody There, starring Michael Caine.

Other Hollywood names to have filmed on location in Kent include Natalie Portman, Scarlett Johansson and Eric Bana for the Other Boleyn Girl, Reese Witherspoon for Vanity Fair and Daniel Craig for The Golden Compass.

The new law aims to attract even more filmmakers to Kent, bringing benefits to Kent businesses, tourism and residents.

Although the new law gives legal powers to close roads, KCC insistes the Kent Film Office will continue to work closely with local residents and businesses and take their needs into account.

Tanya Oliver, director of Strategic Development and Public Access added: "This is really exciting for Kent.

"We can now offer filmmakers a real flexibility to meet their needs and that's going to make us an even more attractive prospect.

"I think our county is set for stardom that will benefit everyone."

Kent County Council unanimously approved promotion of the bill across all three political parties when it was voted on at a full council meeting.