Bidding for city’s local TV channel under way

Bidding for Edinburgh’s local television channel is now under way after OFCOM confirmed the Capital will be one of the first areas in the UK to have its own local TV station.

A total of 20 towns and cities are included in the programme. Licence will be for a 12-year term. As well as broadcasting on Freeview, local TV channels may choose to offer their services on satellite, cable and online.

Edinburgh West Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart said: “UK media has become over-centralised and doesn’t serve local areas the way it should. This announcement is a big step forward in bringing Edinburgh relevant home-grown programming.”

But he added: “We must make sure the many rural communities around Edinburgh, like Ratho and Kirkliston, are included. There is a fear that programming will be centred on the city.”