Coronation Street bosses were blown away as they unveiled a new location away from the Cobbles.
The production of the long-running soap has continued to expand since the set moved to a new home in 2013. The universe has now broadened even further after the fabled Weatherfield Precinct set was opened today.
The much mentioned location has been visited by the residents of Coronation Street for decades. The show's producer was ecstatic as viewers will now be able to see their favourite characters take trips to the shopping centre.
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Iain MacLeod added: “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. I am really excited by the arrival on screen of this much discussed but never seen corner of the Weatherfield universe.”
Stars such as Jack P Shepherd, Sally Dynevor and Antony Cotton were in attendance at the grand unveiling. The first scene in the new surroundings will be filmed next week and be broadcast during an episode set to air on January 13.
Construction of the two storey set took nine months and boasts maisonettes, a staircase and balcony leading to the properties, a piazza and an array of accessible local shops and units. The new set is located at the show's home in Trafford and also features a children’s park and play area with swings and a roundabout.
The set was designed and developed by the Coronation Street Design and Construction teams, who aged the building to make it look as though it has been there for decades. The head of design credited the team as the new set was proudly opened.
Rosie Mullins said: “Weatherfield Precinct was inspired by the 1960s shopping precincts that we see across many areas of the UK."
She added: "This build has been one of the most enjoyable builds that we have undertaken and showcases the many behind the scenes talents that the programme has to offer. I am incredibly proud of the detail, the quality of the build and for what it offers for future storytelling for the show."
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