Great news for everyone who ever wanted to make the pilgrimage to that little cobbled street in Manchester. The Coronation Street set is going to be once again open for public tours, according to the Guardian (though no date has been given).
It's all part of a plan to make as much money as possible from the Coronation Street brand by selling items associated with the show, such as Newton & Ridley beer and Underworld-branded lingerie. Corrie-themed clothes, restaurants and tea sets are also planned.
This was all announced by ITV Commercial Brand Director Gustavo Antonioni, who has previously worked for Disney and Warner Bros. "This isn't about going out there and licensing the heck out of things," he said. "Our business is about creating a TV commercial that is aired a couple of times a week that people can engage with."
Mr Antonioni also has his eye on the marketing opportunities presented by Corrie's 50th anniversary in 2010.
Edited to add: the very reliable Ian Wylie has an update on this story here, suggesting that these plans are very much still "in development." He also says, "if ITV Granada in Manchester did move, could the old Corrie set at Quay Street be left behind as a tourist attraction? Or would the land - post credit-crunch - be worth more filled with offices, apartments, shops, restaurants or whatever?"
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And about time too. I think with the 50th anniversary looming, they know the public expect something. There used to be all kinds of merchandise out there with the Corrie brand on it and they stopped making stuff about 10 years ago. I also wonder if it's got anythign to do with the upcoming studio move. If they rebuild the outside set at the new studio, they can tour the heck out of the old one without worrying about shooting schedules.
Good news indeed! I was lucky enough to have visited the set years ago when it was first opened to the public. It was one of the most surreal experience of my life and for a real fan is something you must do.
They even let you post cards in the pillarbox in from the the corner shop too! The rest of the Granada tour was very sub-par compared to the other film/TV tours I've been on, but being able to walk down the street was worth every penny.
Alan
... Hallelujah! ... this IS grand news!
im so glad ive never been before so i hope i do get to go with my family xxxx
please lets me know when the coronation street set is open for it 50th anniversary