Sharp Project bags CBBC gig

The Sharp Project, a former warehouse in Newton Heath currently being converted into a media production hub, has landed a new series for BBC Children.

My Genius Idea, produced by Shine TV, has already started filming at the East Manchester facility, with nine 30-minute programmes scheduled for broadcast on CBBC later this year.

The show has built a large scale set in one of the Sharp Project’s sound stages. Sue Woodward OBE, director for the Sharp Project said: “This is just one of a number of big names in TV production that are interested in our facilities at the Sharp Project. We have 70,000 sq ft of sound stage space and can accommodate a full range of large and small scale productions.

“We now have a host of companies located here that can support production companies by offering services such as kit hire, post production, editing facilities and set design. One of our tenants, Barcode Media, designed this particular set. We really are creating our very own eco-system where both small and large businesses can feed off each other and thrive.”

The redevelopment of the former Sharp warehouse is being led by regeneration company New East Manchester Ltd. The site is currently undergoing a £16.5m refurbishment funded by Manchester City Council, the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) and the European Regional Development Fund.

Phase one was completed in April. Phase two is open to tenants and a further two phases will be completed by the end of the year in time for the opening of the new Central Park Metrolink station, due to open next Spring, at the same time as Peel Group’s Media City on Salford Quays.

The building, off Oldham Road is already home to 25 companies specialising in digital content production, digital media and production for TV and film.

Founded by Elisabeth Murdoch, Shine TV specialises in entertainment, factual and drama programmes including Masterchef, Don’t Stop Believing, Gladiators and Battle of the Brains. It has offices in London, Manchester and Cardiff.