Northern Visions confirmed today that it will bid for the local television license in Belfast. Ofcom has confirmed that Belfast will be one of the first areas to have its own local TV station.
Northern Visions originally won the bid to broadcast local community television, NvTv, in 2002 and has been broadcasting to the Greater Belfast area on the old analogue signal since 2004. This is due to be switched off in October as part of the digital switchover.
Years of active campaigning by the local television sector have successfully resulted in DCMS putting in place the necessary legislative and infrastructural support for local television.
“The issues that have severely limited the development local television have now been addressed. Local television will be received on the digital platform Freeview, with opportunities to expand to cable and satellite. With the public able to receive local television easily, we will be able to extend our programming and services for the community including offering a low-budget solution for small local businesses to advertise their services. In developing the bid it is our intention to strengthen the partnerships with the many cultural, community and educational organisations who work with Northern Visions and also seek partnerships with the commercial sector.” said David Hyndman of Northern Visions.
If you, your group or your company is interested in joining with Northern Visions please do get in contact with them on feedback@nvtv.co.uk or telephone 028 9024 5495 ext 207.
