[2] When deciding where to set the new soap, the BBC thought Glasgow was the "obvious option" but were worried it was too overexposed and they were looking at other locations.

[1] Greenhorn had spent a lot of time in Leith writing a story about the opening of the Scottish Parliament so he suggested the port district as the setting as he believed it shared similarities to Glasgow.

This set Greenhorn back as he had already begun developing characters and producing storylines, but they didn't fit into the social classes and lifestyle of the city.

[4] He also wanted to stick around to help the soap become a "drama factory" to open doors to actors, writers and crews to get into the television industry.

[4] BBC Scotland began building a purpose-built backlot, studio facility and office accommodation on an old whisky and vodka bottling plant in Dumbarton.

[4] The soap's title, The Shore, was dropped by the BBC and Greenhorn suggested simply calling it Sheildinch, but this was rejected.

[7] In March 2020, production of River City was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and filming recommenced in August 2020.

Shieldinch was founded in 1860 and was known for its shipyard (the local pub is named "The Tall Ship", which is a tribute to the area's shipbuilding heritage).

The name is derived from the real districts of Whiteinch and Shieldhall, located on opposite banks of the River Clyde.

[11] Filming takes place on a set built specifically for the soap opera in the nearby town of Dumbarton.

Community involvement and the ability to come to terms with family issues, distress, and disagreements contribute to the development of each character.