ITV is planning to launch more digital channels after the merger of Carlton and Granada early next year, according to The Independent today.
The network currently operates three stations - the flagship ITV1, entertainment offshoot ITV2 and rolling news service the ITV News Channel. Proposed new channels include ITV3 and ITV Kids, as well as a series of potential timeshift channels.
ITV3 would target a more upmarket audience with a schedule composed of dramas and "high-brow programming" often overlooked on ITV1. The children's channel would compete directly with the BBC's two offerings - CBeebies and CBBC - as well as the array of stations from other broadcasters.
The newly merged company will also "explore the case" for timeshift channels, showing ITV programmes at later times. An ITV1+1 station is said to be in the frame; if so, it would be the first terrestrial channel to have a dedicated timeshift.
One or more of the new channels will be available on Freeview. All are expected to be available via Sky and cable at launch.
The network currently operates three stations - the flagship ITV1, entertainment offshoot ITV2 and rolling news service the ITV News Channel. Proposed new channels include ITV3 and ITV Kids, as well as a series of potential timeshift channels.
ITV3 would target a more upmarket audience with a schedule composed of dramas and "high-brow programming" often overlooked on ITV1. The children's channel would compete directly with the BBC's two offerings - CBeebies and CBBC - as well as the array of stations from other broadcasters.
The newly merged company will also "explore the case" for timeshift channels, showing ITV programmes at later times. An ITV1+1 station is said to be in the frame; if so, it would be the first terrestrial channel to have a dedicated timeshift.
One or more of the new channels will be available on Freeview. All are expected to be available via Sky and cable at launch.
