Dozens of possible bidders for ITV studios

Around 50 potential bidders have emerged for the London studios of ITV in a development that has led to speculation that the Downton Abbey broadcaster could leave for more up-to-date premises.

The studios' landlord, Coal Pension Properties, is looking to sell up, and adviser CBRE has put a £45m guide price on the South Bank studios, where The Jonathan Ross Show is filmed.

Sources close to the sale process said that bids are due next month, and there have already been 40 to 50 expressions of interest.

ITV has 56 years left on its lease, but property sources believe that the group will use the sale as an opportunity to seek out studios more appropriate for the digital age.

ITV is understood to have looked at three alternative sites in London, though has previously insisted that it has no plans to leave.