Coronation Street have unveiled their brand new set, the Weatherfield Precint.
Stars of the ITV soap including Jack P Shepherd, Sally Dynevor, Antony Cotton, Jimmi Harkishin, Daniel Brocklebank, Channique Sterling-Brown, Elle Mulvaney, Tanisha Gorey, James Craven and Colson Smith were all on hand to declare the Precinct open for business today, with viewers set to be able to join their favourite residents on trips to the shopping centre.
Bosses have now teased what fans can expect from the new location, which features maisonettes, a staircase and balcony leading to the properties as well as a piazza and an array of accessible local shops and units.
Speaking about the new area, and what storylines it'll bring, producer Iain MacLeod said: "Hats off to our design and construction teams who have conjured a totally convincing new precinct for our drama!
"They took their inspiration from Salford’s many real-world, late 20th century shopping areas and what they have created is a brilliant, characterful space to tell a diverse range of stories. Expect to see teens hanging out at the dessert shop, families enjoying the play area and, after dark, a rogues’ gallery, up to shady business in the ginnels.
He added: "I am really excited by the arrival on screen of this much discussed but never seen corner of the Weatherfield universe."
The Precinct was built over the last nine months, with filming set to begin next week and the scenes being aired in mid January. It also features a children’s park and play area with swings and a roundabout for the youngest residents too. A charity shop there will also provide work for the residents of Weatherfield, with Roy Cropper and Evelyn Plumber set to volunteer their services too.
Head of Design Rosie Mullins shared: "Back in 2013 Coronation Street moved into its new home at Media City. With this move came exciting potential to continue to develop and expand our Weatherfield Community onsite.
" Weatherfield Precinct was inspired by the 1960s shopping precincts that we see across many areas of the UK. I wanted there to be aspects of the Precinct that people from all walks of life identify with. I cannot wait to see the arrival onscreen of Sweety Nuff dessert & milkshake shop, Gregory Pope Foundation Charity Shop, Rutlands bakery, Pound Outlet and Bargainanza Pawnbrokers."
*Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday on ITV at 8pm.
