Who producer to head up new drama unit

A new BBC drama unit is to set up shop in Manchester, run by Doctor Who producer Phil Collinson.

Broadcast reports Collinson's new role will be developing links with on and off-screen talent in the region, and developing new shows for the BBC drama slate. He will take up the position "in a few weeks", after work on the fourth Doctor Who series, currently being trailed in UK cinema ads, is complete.

Several new projects are under discussion and while the two may be connected, downthetubes knows of at least one Doctor Who writer who is hoping an adventure show he has been developing for some time may get a green light this year, as a new Saturday night series for the BBC.