Channel 6 to provide biggest boost to UK production claims CEO
The launch of local TV network Channel 6 will offer the UK’s independent production sector its biggest boost in 30 years, its chief executive has claimed.
Former Trinity Mirror chief executive, now chief executive of Channel 6, Richard Horwood has promised that the launch of the local TV network across the UK would launch with a larger programme budget than Channel 5 and would also shy away from the strategy of airing US produced content.
“The key to making local TV attractive to both viewers and advertisers is programming of as high a quality and broad a range as we are used to on the other public service channels. Britain’s independent production companies are world-beaters, and we are looking to them to provide brand new features, drama, and other concepts to inform, empower, and entertain our viewers,” stated Horwood.
“We’re working with some of the country’s top talent to develop exciting new programme ideas, which I’m afraid we have to keep close to our chest until the formal bids are in, probably early next year. What I can say is that from launch we will have a bigger programme budget than Channel 5 and we will be spending roughly the same amount per viewer as BBC2,” he continued.
“Over 60% of our programme budget is for original production, and of this we expect the bulk to be commissioned from independent producers. Channel 6 won't be yet another mishmash of old US series and programmes you saw last week on our sister channel. On the contrary, Channel 6 will deliver the biggest boost to the UK’s independent production sector since the launch of Channel 4 a generation ago. And because of our local focus, one of the main beneficiaries will be creative talent in the regions and nations," concluded Horwood.
The Government's plan for the network is that it will aim to serve local communities across the UK across both TV and online, wholly funded through advertising.
Meanwhile, John McVay, chief executive and chief operating officer of trade association PACT, added that he welcomed a new channel which was prepared to invest ‘significant new funds’ into UK programmes.
“Channel 6 could offer new sources of commissioning for hard pressed indies in the regions and we look forward to working with Channel 6 as they develop their plans,” added McVay.