HOPES that Greenock-based TV drama Waterloo Road could be saved from the axe have today been dashed.

Filming is currently under way at the former Greenock Academy building for the final series, which is due for transmission early next year.

But there was growing speculation that Channel 5 were interested in taking over the popular school drama when it finishes next year on BBC.

Sources in the TV industry claimed Channel 5 were going to step in and stop the final school bell being rung.

Waterloo Road’s producers also said it was not surprising that there was such speculation, given the programme’s large and loyal fanbase.

But the possibility was quashed when bosses at Channel 5 categorically ruled out getting involved.

Their spokesperson told the Tele: “There is no truth in the rumour that Channel 5 are looking at Waterloo Road.” It means that the former Academy will eventually be flattened and put up for sale when the cameras move on.

Meanwhile the programme-makers have promised that the show will go out with a bang.

They have recruited a whole host of famous faces from other shows, including Sherlock and Broadchurch.

Series 10, the last installment of the long-running drama, will include River City’s Holly Jack, Broadchurch actress Charlotte Beaumont and Sherlock star Stefano Braschi.

Scots actress Holly, who’s left behind her long-running role as Nicole Brodie in River City, said: “I’m so excited to be joining the cast and being part of the last series is something very special.

“My character is involved in some really big storylines and it’s going to be a fantastic farewell.” Holly joins fellow newcomers Finlay MacMillan (also of River City) plus Andrew Still (Hollyoaks), Charlotte Beaumount and rising star Armin Karim on set in Greenock.

Sherlock star Braschi will be among the new teaching staff in the show, alongside Casualty actress Laura Aikman and Rege Jean Page, from Fresh Meat.

The final series will be shown in 2015 but the remaining 10 episodes of series nine, featuring Neil Pearson, Laurie Brett, Angus Deayton and Nicola Stephenson, will be transmitted later this year.