Alun Jones has been appointed as the new programme director for BBC Cymru Wales’ new drama centre.

Jones, who will take up the role next month at the drama centre, currently being constructed in Cardiff Bay.

He will be responsible for the team developing the drama centre, which will play host for network programmes such as Doctor Who, The Sarah Jane Adventures and Casualty, as well as soap opera, Pobol y Cwm.

The Drama Centre has been built to replace two current BBC Wales drama production sites at Llandaff, in Cardiff, and in Upper Boat near Pontypridd.

Building work on the site is due for completion next summer, with filming set to begin in Autumn 2011 on Casualty and Pobol y Cwm first, following by Doctor Who and The Sarah Jane Adventures moving in 2012. 

Alun Jones said: "The drama centre is a unique project in Wales and I am delighted to be joining the team at this stage of a development which, in addition to allowing BBC Wales to build on the success of its current drama productions, also presents a fantastic opportunity for the wider creative industries in Wales.

"There is an ambitious timetable of work to be completed in the coming year and I'm confident that it will be achieved through the combination of the outstanding talent within the team and the excellent partnerships that have already been put in place."

Menna Richard, BBC Cymru Wales director, : "I am delighted that someone of Alun's experience is taking over this important project to deliver a fantastic drama centre that will be of significant benefit to the wider creative industries in Wales."