Sony Among Supporters for Local London Channel

LONDON: Sony Pictures Television (SPT) Networks in the U.K. is planning to provide a range of services to support LondonTV, a proposed local channel for London that is backed by the Channel 6 Consortium.

If the channel successfully scores a license, SPT Networks would become a program schedule provider and deliver creative services for the new network. SPT Networks’ U.K. ad-sales outfit, Dolphin Television, would handle all advertising sales for London TV on behalf of Channel 6. The consortium behind the proposed venture is backed by Archant, Tindle and Trinity Mirror, London’s three main local newspaper groups.

Richard Horwood, the chief executive of the Channel 6 Consortium, said: "Sony Pictures Television completes our bid in great style, alongside London’s diverse local newspaper groups and one of the top broadcast TV teams in the country. We could not have a better entertainment programming and ad sales partner. Local television has struggled in the past to be commercially successful in this country even where the potential has existed, even in London, due to lack of commercial realism. SPT Networks’ expertise in the multichannel sector will significantly strengthen LondonTV from the outset, attracting audiences and advertising revenues that will underpin our investment in high quality local programming and expand our capacity to commission more."

Kate Marsh, SPT Networks’ senior VP for Western Europe, added: "When Channel 6 first approached us, it quickly became clear their team represents a formidable mix of creative energy and commercial judgement that will provide a viable and attractive channel for London audiences. As a U.K. channel enterprise with global muscle, we can offer proven expertise and resources to help reinforce LondonTV as it spreads its wings and expands its local offering."