BBC commissions a further two series of Waterloo Road

The BBC has recommissioned Waterloo Road for two further new series, it was announced today.

Made by Rope Ladder Fiction and Wall to Wall North for BBC One and iPlayer, the new two-series order is in addition to the next eight-part series which has already been filmed, meaning that three new series of the school drama are on the way.

Cameron Roach, executive producer of Waterloo Road, said:

“We’re beyond thrilled with the triumphant return of Waterloo Road, and so thankful to the BBC for committing to the show so fully. We love that the show has the potential not only to be a crown jewel for BBC iPlayer, but also serve as a true beacon for training, and inspiring next generation talent. In addition to our open auditions and full-time production trainee placements for industry newcomers, our workshops across Greater Manchester this Summer for 14-16 year olds, in partnership with BBC Young Reporter, have truly demonstrated the infectious power of this show.”

Waterloo Road originally ran on BBC One between 2006-2015, and was revived earlier this year after its back catalogue proved a popular addition to BBC iPlayer during the first lockdown. The youth-aimed drama set in a secondary school depicts the issues of today’s young teens, including the costs of living crisis, teen homelessness, racism, sexism, and mental health.

The show remains especially popular on BBC iPlayer, where it is in the top three most-watched titles of the year so far for 16-34 year olds, alongside Happy Valley and EastEnders.

The revival featured a mix of new and old faces including Angela Griffin (Kim Campbell), Adam Thomas (Donte Charles) and Kym Marsh (Nicky Walters).

With a track record of launching new talent both on screen and behind the camera, the show will continue to cast key roles via open auditions at schools and youth clubs, and will once again offer workshops and production training schemes for newcomers to the industry, further boosting drama production skills in the North of England.

Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, said: 

“It’s been a joy to see Waterloo Road return to the BBC this year, delighting new and returning fans with its fantastic ensemble of relatable characters and a winning mix of heart, humour and high drama. It’s been especially exciting to see the new boxsets prove so popular on iPlayer, and to see the next brilliant generation of acting and production talent break into the industry via their work on the series. Life’s never dull for the staff and pupils at Waterloo Road, and there’s a lot more drama to come!”

Viewers can stream all episodes of Waterloo Road, including 2023’s two new series, exclusively on BBC iPlayer now.