Ofcom awards second set of local TV licences

Ofcom has awarded the second set of local TV licences to Bristol, Cardiff and Norwich.

Bristol will run a ‘Made in Bristol’ channel; Cardiff a ‘Made in Cardiff’ channel and Norwich a ‘Mustard TV’ channel.

The licences have been awarded for a period of up to 12 years. It is hoped that some channels may be on air before the end of 2013.

In May 2012, Ofcom invited applications to run local TV services in 21 local areas. In total, 57 applications were received to run the local TV services, along with four applications for the local multiplex.

As well as broadcasting on DTT, it is anticipated that local TV channels might also offer their services on satellite, cable and online.

Ofcom has now awarded five local TV licences, and will make further licence awards in the coming months.