PRESS ASSOCIATION -- William Roache and Michelle Keegan have taken part in a "groundbreaking" ceremony to mark the start of construction on Coronation Street's future home.
The Corrie duo were marking the imminent start of building work on the 7.7-acre site in Salford where ITV is creating a bespoke standalone production and studio centre for the world's longest running drama.
Building on the new site is expected to continue until spring 2013.
The production will then relocate from central Manchester to the new centre, just across the water from the heart of MediaCityUK, which is to be home to ITV Studios' production and management teams, regional news and support staff.
William, who plays the soap's longest running character Ken Barlow, said: "It's over 50 years since I first walked on to a Coronation Street set, and now I'm here with Michelle, starting the build of our new home - the one that will take us well into this century - and it feels fantastic."
The actors were joined by representatives from the Coronation Street production team, ITV senior management, project partners and local councillors.
Kevin Lygo, managing director of ITV Studios, said: "Our move to MediaCityUK is an historic one that will continue our commitment to the north, ensuring our longevity as the major programme maker in the region and make us a crucial part of Europe's biggest media population. It is a very exciting time."