BBC Switch today announces that it has gone into production with a brand new soap for its teen audience.

In five-minute episodes on bbc.co.uk/switch and a weekly TV omnibus on BBC Two launching later in the year, The Cut features fast-paced storylines packed with plenty of drama for soap loving teens.

The Cut has been developed by BBC Switch and EastEnders writer Al Smith in collaboration with KateModern producer Pete Gibbons and director Sarah Walker, whose credits include Hollyoaks.

Geoffrey Goodwin, Head of BBC Switch, says: "This series reflects the way many young people want to consume content. We've united top British writing talent with the freshest and newest interactive ideas to make appointment to view content for soap loving British teens.

"The story is fast paced and relevant to young audiences, with secret crushes, family dramas and plenty of intrigue. The writing is quick, witty, and knowing, rich with pop culture references and with storylines suggested by teens themselves."

The unique structure of the Switch team is an opportunity for established directors, writers and producers to lead the next generation of talent – and for many of the young cast this is their first professional job.

Shot on tapeless cameras and edited in house, The Cut will be fast and reactive, with an efficient digital production process allowing capture and broadcast to be just a few weeks apart. The Cut will be an integral part of Switch's offer for British teens, getting audiences to the heart of the drama.