By Emmanuel Oluebube, Senior Correspondent, UK
Ofcom has granted a request to extend the coverage area for Teesside TV – the local digital TV service for Middlesbrough.
The proposals – submitted jointly by the local TV multiplex operator, Comux, and Middlesbrough licensee, Local TV Ltd – sought to extend coverage of Teesside TV’s service into Darlington and surrounding areas.
In approving the request Ofcom recognised, among other things, that:
- the new coverage area is in close geographical proximity to the existing area;
- the increase in the number of homes that would be able to access Teesside TV (233,00 to 353,000) is not disproportionate;
- the proposals would have a positive impact on the viability of both Teesside TV and the local multiplex;
- the extension would not cause any increase in overlap between Teesside TV and other local TV services; and
- the change would not impact on the ability of Teesside TV to deliver against its programming commitments.
Said Ofcom: “We have expedited this decision to enable the change to be factored into the antenna pattern for the new transmitter mast being built to replace the fire-damaged mast at Bilsdale.
We will also review and consult on our local TV coverage policy more broadly as part of our local TV re-licensing work in the autumn.”
