EastEnders is expanding its set with a new backlot stage to accommodate fresh filming locations.
According to The Sun, the soap is reportedly hoping to add three new sets to the backlot, which is located where the old Albert Square was, along with a huge warehouse set, a parade of shops and houses, and nine shipping containers in a bid to expand their filming locations.
EastEnders also reportedly want to revamp the park to take advantage of the old railings from the previous Albert Square set for the fencing. Meanwhile, the allotment will also get a special renovation treatment as it will be expanded so that there is more outdoor green space for filming.
This planning application is for structures and facades to sit on the previous Albert Square lot. This will maximise the use of the area and provide additional filming locations on-site for the EastEnders team, reducing the need for crew to go off-site for filming and increasing the creative opportunities for production and writers.
In 2018, the soap had a huge renovation project and these upcoming plans are part of that existing funding.
A BBC spokesperson said: “These plans are part of the continued redevelopment of the Elstree site and sit within the existing budget as set out in 2018.”
The new-look Albert Square aired on our screens in March 2022 and the set's facelift was done so that it would enable improved HD filming and allow new areas to be explored on screen, giving writers, producers and directors more creative freedom.
The former Albert Square was built in 1984, ready for the soap’s launch the following year. But it was only ever intended to be used for two years and is no longer fit for purpose.
A source reportedly revealed to The Sun: “Bosses don’t want the old set to go to waste when there’s so much that can be done with it for Walford.
“It’s going to open up the soap’s world even more for more drama and more high-stakes storylines. Corrie and Emmerdale both have huge sets and expansions and with this there’s no danger EastEnders will be left behind.”
Coronation Street also expanded their set last year as they unveiled the renowned Weatherfield Precinct, complete with shops and flats.
EastEnders airs Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings at 7.30 pm on BBC One — see our TV Guide for full listings. You can also catch up on episodes on BBC iPlayer now.
