An arts strategy for Scotland was launched yesterday that could result in a national theatre company within 12 months and a start on construction of a film production studio within two years.

Responding to criticism that Scotland has national opera and ballet companies and two national orchestras but no national theatre, the executive committed itself to a feasibility study to be completed early next year. Ministers have indicated that they support the idea in principle, but as yet no money has been pledged to fund the project, likely to approach £3m.

The deputy culture minister, Rhona Brankin, also said yesterday that she would look closely at the practicality of a Scottish equivalent to Pinewood. Two studies have reported positively, and Scottish Screen, an agency that promotes local film-making, has asked the executive to foot the £6m capital costs. A decision is expected next month and, if favourable, construction could begin within two years.

John Archer, director of Scottish Screen, said: "If you look at film studios across the world, with the exception of a couple in Los Angeles they never recoup their capital costs. We think the amount of private money this would bring to Scotland would more than pay off the investment."

Scotland has a strong tradition of successful but low key film-making. A few made it big at the box office, such as Danny Boyle and Andrew Macdonald with Shallow Grave and Trainspotting (pictured); recently, Lynne Ramsay's Ratcatcher was well received at Cannes.

A national theatre company has the backing of the Scottish parliament's education committee. It is unlikely to get its own theatre premises, but would probably work by commissioning artists and companies for a national season.