Coronation Street is to re-start filming next week – but without cast and crew aged over 70.
There will initially be three episodes of the soap per week, half its usual number. In April, about 500 ITV Studios staff working on Coronation Street and Emmerdale were furloughed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Half of those have now returned to work, with the majority of the remainder expected to follow soon. Cast and crew aged over 70, or those with underlying health conditions, will not initially be on set.
However, they will receive individual risk assessments to enable them to do so once it is deemed safe. Other staff have begun a special health and safety induction.
Cast and crew will have their temperatures checked on a daily basis by external medical advisors, props will be sanitised and make-up and costume will be done remotely.
John Whiston, Managing Director of Continuing Drama and Head of ITV in the North, said: “With the peak past, all indications are that the time is right for a return to filming. And with the extensive protocols we have put in place, we have made our workplace as safe as possible.
“I’m sure our audience will appreciate having the show they love continue on air. For many who have written in. it is a vital escape from all the fears and stresses this virus brings in its wake.”
