SAME DIFFERENCE

EastEnders reveals first look at new £87m set as filming finally begins on recreated Albert Square

EASTENDERS has revealed the first look at its new set as filming begins on the soap.

The BBC spent a whopping £87m on the new set designed to be used for filming in HD.

The former Albert Square set was built in 1984 with an intention to be used for two years and was no longer "fit for purpose," the BBC has said.

On Tuesday, filming commenced on the new and improved set, including in the famous Queen Vic, with scenes due to air in Spring 2022.

The investment in the BBC's longest-running TV serial drama and wider BBC Elstree Centre will enable improved high definition for Walford fans.

It has also enhanced filming options, with EastEnders production now able to explore new areas on screen.

As a result, the soap's writers, producers and directors will have greater freedom to drive further creativity.

The serial drama returned to full-length episodes at the beginning of 2021 following a production break during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Pictures revealing the new set show actor Danny Dyer on set, just days after it was revealed he had quit the soap.

That could see the likes of Kellie Bright, who plays Mick’s wife Linda, and Lacey Turner (Stacey Slater) follow him out.

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An insider said: “The feeling among the EastEnders team is his departure is seen as a very bad omen because he’s such a key part of the cast.

“Mick is such an integral and well-liked character that his removal will only make the situation deteriorate.

“And they don’t want to hang around to see things go from bad to worse, particularly if their roles are linked to Danny’s part.

“But at this stage it’s not clear exactly who’d follow suit and go.”

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