The Nine Network has announced today that popular renovation series, The Block, will return in 2010.

Director of programming, Michael Healy, confirmed the program had been commissioned for a third new series.

“The Block is a unique format that has always captured our ongoing obsession with real estate. Right now everybody’s talking about real estate again and I’m very excited that we’re bringing back a show which has been such a phenomenal success.”

The format will remain the same, with four couples having to "out-design and out-decorate each other in a struggle to complete the best apartment" in eight weeks. The apartments will go to public auction, where the couples will be able to keep the profit made from the sale. The couple who top the auction will also win a grand prize of $100,000.

With more than a dozen countries producing the show, Healy said, “The enduring success of the show internationally has been in the simplicity of the format.”

Network personality and Domestic Blitz builder, Scott Cam, will host the program. The first two series were hosted by current Seven Network presenter, Jamie Durie. Cam said he was delighted with the opportunity.

"As a builder I know this is one of the toughest competitions that's ever been devised but having watched the first two series I know it can also be one of the most rewarding.

"I can't wait to meet the four couples who are willing to take on the challenge this time. Usually I'm the one on the tools so for me, this is going to be fun."

Casting for the new series has conmmenced with interested couples encouraged to contract the Mcgregor Casting agency for more information.

Media Spy discussion: The Block