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ITV plans mini theme park in London

Up to 250,000 visitors a year could ‘experience’ popular ITV programmes under plans for a mini theme park in London.

The broadcaster of shows such as Downton Abbey, Victoria, The Voice and Broadchurch has revealed it is looking for a site in the centre of the capital for the visitor attraction.

A brochure issued on behalf of its “commerce and ventures” team to property industry professionals shows that the venue could include a 100-seat auditorium for “immersive cinematic presentations” and a restaurant.

Visitors would also be able to look at sets, costumes and artefacts from programmes.

The document is titled “A place for drama to live in London”, and comprises proposals for a “distinctive visitor experience,” the London Evening Standard reported.

Agent Lambert Smith Hampton has been hired to lead the search for a suitable site of up to 20,000 sq ft.

It is understood the plans are at an early stage, although the target launch is 2018, when current easyJet chief executive Carolyn McCall becomes ITV’s first female boss.

ITV said: “As part of our business we have a team which operates experiential events around our programmes, including the Emmerdale Studio Experience and This Morning Live, and are always looking at new ways to expand this and bring in new programme brands.”

The Emmerdale Studio Experience includes an 80-minute tour of sets in Leeds.

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EasyJet confirms McCall’s exit for ITV role

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