ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½

ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ One goes high definition

Date: 28.05.2010     Last updated: 23.09.2014 at 09.50
The ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ is to launch a high definition (HD) version of ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ One on DTT, cable and satellite later in the year, following the ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Trust's approval of proposals from the Executive.

In addition, the Trust also agreed an extension of daily hours on the existing, dedicated ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ HD channel from an average of nine hours to 12 hours a day. These changes are reflected in amended service licences for ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ One and the ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ HD channel, published today.

ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Trust Chairman Sir Michael Lyons said:

"The launch of a high definition simulcast of ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ One is great news for audiences. As we move towards digital switchover, this is a high-profile commitment to the provision of HD services, which will help to fulfil the ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½'s public purpose of delivering to the public the benefit of new technologies. And this is possible within existing channel budgets, meaning excellent value for licence fee payers."

In taking this decision, the Trust took careful account of the implications of the proposals, including noting that adverse impact on other broadcasters was likely to be minimal, that neither change represents a new area of activity for the ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½, and that the changes can be made within the agreed budget range for each channel.

Despite the overall benefits of a universally available HD simulcast of ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ One for audiences, the Trust also recognised that technical and financial constraints currently prevent additional variations, and asked the ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Executive to take steps to minimise the effects of this on viewers in the nations and regions.

Ends.

The amended service licences are available on the Service licences and reviews page.