The MEN says that filming on the Coronation Street set will stop tomorrow (4 March) as staff tune in to a video conference about ITV's financial situation. Job cuts are expected in non-production roles at Granada, as ITV has been affected by the global economic situation and the downturn in advertising revenue (down 30% in the first three months of this year).
There's also speculation that ITV could sell off some of the land it holds in Manchester, including the Quay Street offices and the Coronation Street set. An industry commentator said, "It is commonly felt that the head office and Coronation Street set is no longer fit for modern television." If this happens, production of Corrie could possibly be moved to the MediaCityUK development in Salford Quays.
Lets hope it doesn't affect corrie too much in terms of chaacters and stars, or any other show for that matter, the recession has really taken its toll on everyone.
Dear Bill
Sincere sympathy on the death of your wife Sara,
Kym very sorry to hear about your baby love to you both. I hope and pray the recession will not cause any redundancies or too much disruption for you all. Best Wishes to you all.
Claire Neill
I will keep my eye on the news tomorrow, hope the cuts aren't too drastic.
(Off topic: To the above poster, Claire Neill, I don't suppose you're from the UK and ever lived in Somerset did you? An old family friend has the same name and we've not spoken to her for years!)
If Granada needs to save money then the first port of call should be the Coronation Street cast. Axings all round I feel. The cast could easily be trimmed down by 15-20 actors.
Corrie's production expenses should also be put forward for a trimming down. It may just be my view on things, but Corrie seems to waste money willy-nilly, especially on sets and wardrobe. Why has money been wasted on the brand new upstairs set at the Rovers? Redecorating the Rovers twice within a year? Moving the staircase at No.4? It might not be megabucks, but it all adds up.