Scott Free London, the Ridley Scott-backed indie, plans to expand its TV development team after it struck a first-look deal with Sonar Entertainment.

Sonar, formerly known as RHI, will distribute all of Scott Free London’s projects following the deal which was agreed by its chief executive Gene Stein. The two companies signed a distribution deal for forthcoming BBC and FX drama Taboo [pictured] earlier this year and have now formalised a long-term arrangement.

The deal has enabled Scott Free to beef up its development team.

It has hired Strike Back exec producer Gabriel Silver as development producer. Silver has previously worked on Life on Mars, Spooks, Waking The Dead and DCI Banks.

Scott Free London is also recruiting for a junior development role.

Head of TV Kate Crowe said: “The deal with Sonar has meant that we can increase the team and ramp up development. It will give us the wherewithal to expand.”

Scott Free London was set up in 2010 by the Alien and Blade Runner director. It has produced YouTube film Life In A Day as well as a number of films including Before I Go To Sleep and Get Santa.

Previously run by Liza Marshall, who left to form Archery Pictures in September, it is a separate company to Scott Free LA, which produces series including The Good Wife and Numb3rs.

This story originally appeared on Broadcast