By Editor,James Tozer

Copyright dailymail

It is the birthplace of the working class – and from the Gallagher brothers to Caroline Aherne, Manchester’s contribution to British culture has reflected its past.

But a new study has been launched to examine whether Manchester has become ‘too posh’.

In recent decades the city has witnessed a dramatic transformation, with billions of pounds in investment creating tens of thousands of high-skilled jobs.

However critics say the city has lost its cultural identity as a result of what has been dubbed a ‘class ceiling’.

Actors including Christopher Eccleston – from neighbouring Salford – have said opportunities for people from working class backgrounds are drying up.

The study is being headed by former chief prosecutor Nazir Afzal, now Chancellor of the University of Manchester.

It will look at how to improve working class representation in the creative industries across Greater Manchester.

‘There is a wealth of research showing that working class representation in UK creative industries is at its lowest level in decades and many leading artists have warned that the class ceiling is holding back innovation and creativity,’ Mr Afzal said.

‘Given that around half of the UK identify as working class, that is a huge amount of talent being shut out.

‘For a city like Manchester, whose culture has largely been shaped by the working class, this poses an existential threat.

‘But Manchester is really good at rising to a challenge and in the coming months we will be looking to better understand the barriers to participation and talking to key partners to identify local solutions that can smash the class ceiling and level the playing field.’

Among stars to speak out in recent years are Coronation Street legend Julie Hesmondhalgh, who was born in Accrington, Lancashire.

She has said the availability of a grant to enable her to attend drama school was vital in her success at breaking into acting.

‘It is much, much more difficult for young people from working class backgrounds now,’ she added.

Meanwhile former Dr Who star Eccleston told the Guardian: ‘You don’t believe if you come from a council estate you can be an actor, a poet or a painter.’

Inquiry co-chair Avis Gilmore added: ‘Over the last 20-years we’ve seen the infrastructure that supported an explosion of working-class talent in Manchester wither away.

‘You have to ask the question, could there be another Liam Gallagher or Caroline Aherne today?’

The inquiry is backed by the Co-op.

Its director of campaigns, public affairs and policy, Paul Gerrard, said: ‘Unlocking and unleashing the hidden talent and creativity across the region will enrich the lives of everyone living in communities throughout our region.’

An online survey will examine attitudes of people interesting in the creative sector ahead of a ‘symposium’ next year which will examine possible solutions.