BBC Three will Return as a Channel on February

BBC Three, the digital platform that’s been the home of “Fleabag”And “Normal People,”The broadcast channel is back.

On Thursday, the British media regulator Ofcom approved the channel. It stated that at least 75% hours of broadcasting each year would be original programs commissioned by BBC for U.K viewers.

Official confirmation by the corporation of a February launch of BBC Three has been made. The service will be available on Freeview Sky, Virgin, Freesat and Freesat. EPG numbers will be confirmed later.

Fiona Campbell (controller for BBC Three) commented on the decision: “This is a big moment, with the new channel providing a destination for young audiences to discover more content on the BBC. We will work hand in hand with iPlayer to provide a broad offering that is representative of the whole of the U.K. and we will continue to back new talent and bold ideas. This approach will bring the audience a distinctive mix of programs that are there to entertain, inspire and challenge thinking, at a pivotal and exciting time to be young in the U.K.”

Elsewhere, the BBC and Pact have agreed a new Terms of Trade deal for television productions made by independent producers — a crucial development in rights negotiations between BBC Three and program suppliers who were once making shows for a digital platform, and will now be producing for a broadcast channel.

These key terms are listed below:

  • For BBC Three Commissions, the BBC will receive a 2-year window on iPlayer catch-up platform, and unlimited transmissions on BBC Three’s broadcast channel for the first 18 months.
  • For the remaining 3.5 year of the program payment to independent producers, the BBC has 18 more transmission days on BBC Three. Repeats are available separately for transmissions on other BBC channels.
  • A payment of 1% non-exclusivity or 2% exclusivity is required to use iPlayer beyond the two year period. Each 12-month extension reduces the initial licence term by six months, but can be extended.

According to the BBC, the new deal will offer greater flexibility and access. “more value to audiences, ensures a clear framework for producers and provides the BBC with flexibility to have programmes available to watch on both BBC Three and iPlayer.”

BBC’s commercial, rights and business affairs director Jo Korn said: “This new deal is great news for both the BBC and independent producers, and we are really pleased to have concluded this in good time for launch. This deal gives the channel the freedom to deliver its programs to viewers in any way they choose, and also recognizes producers for their success.

Pact’s director of business affairs Max Rumney added: “Our members are pleased to see the return of the linear channel and the opportunities this will bring for producers to showcase the brilliant creativity of the U.K. independent production sector. It is a great example of Pact and the BBC working together to deliver a positive result for everyone.”

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