A new version of '70s series Poldark is among four drama commissions announced by the BBC today (May 9).

Outgoing BBC One controller Danny Cohen has ordered a new adaptation of Winston Graham's Cornish romantic saga.

People, Hat, Style, Fashion, Sun hat, Monochrome, Monochrome photography, Vintage clothing, Black-and-white, Costume accessory, pinterest
John Curtis

Tony Jordan (Life on Mars, Hustle) will also pen Dickensian for the channel - the drama is based on the works of Charles Dickens and will see characters from the author's novels cross paths in "the most surprising of ways".

Two further projects in the works at BBC One are Our Zoo - a six-part period drama about the man who created Chester Zoo in the 1930s - and Blackpool creator Peter Bowker's From There to Here - set in the aftermath of 1996's IRA Manchester bombing of the Arndale shopping centre.

"It has been a joy and privilege to commission programmes for BBC One," said Cohen. "I hope audiences enjoy the range and creative ambitions of these new dramas for the channel."

Collar, Coat, Dress shirt, Facial hair, Suit, Outerwear, Beard, Style, Formal wear, Blazer, pinterest
Peter Searle

Cohen left his post as BBC One controller this week to become the BBC's director of television, with Charlotte Moore serving as his temporary replacement.

What to Read Next

> Bergerac: Classic detective drama to be remade by BBC

Watch a clip from the original Poldark below: