Channel 5 Gets Bonus Viewers

It is reported that Channel 5 will be able to reach a greater proportion of the UK audience faster than was originally anticipated.

The government gave permission last year for Channel 5 to use extra frequencies for the next five years; enabling it to reach an extra 3 million viewers *Channel 5 Could Reach More Homes. However, international approval had to be sought before Channel 5 could instigate the proposal.

It is expected that David Elstein, chief executive of Channel 5, will announce tomorrow that approval has been given and the extra viewers should be onboard by September. As a result, the percentage of the UK population able to receive the new channel will rise from 70 to 80%.

In another attempt to increase audience size, Channel 5 is trying to get BSkyB to carry the channel on its system. If they are successful another 1 million homes will be added.

In addition, a deal with the main cable companies would add a further 500,000 homes to the Channel 5 audience. The channel is currently in negotiation with the cable companies, but a number of differences have arisen *Cables Crossed With Channel 5.

* Subscribers only

Channel 5: 0171 497 5225