New BBC soap to rival Corrie?

[Ashley]

New BBC soap to rival Corrie?[/b]
09:18 BST, Saturday 2nd October 2004 -- by Daniel Kilkelly

The BBC are planning a new Northern soap to rival Coronation Street, according to The Sun today.

The newspaper claims that the new soap could even replace EastEnders if it is successful.

A source told the newspaper, "We’re looking for a new soap based in the North.

"It won’t be launched with a view to immediately replace EastEnders, but if it’s a success who knows what will happen?"

The BBC apparently came up with the idea as plans were announced to relocate 1000 employees to Manchester.

"We need something really big 52 weeks a year," the BBC's drama boss, Jane Tranter, explained.

"I think the most important thing is to give a voice to an area. The way to do that is to film that area. Manchester boasts really fantastic writers, on-screen talent and locations.

"About four years ago we hadn’t got much in the North. Then we knocked on the door and started to do Linda Green and Cutting It.

"Now we plan to truly open the door."

[sootycat]

Sounds quite interesting does that.

[Jade]

I don't really care, as long as it get rid of EastEnders! Although, I did hear rumours about a new BBC soap about six months back and nothing came of it, so i doubt it will actually happen.