UKTV plans comedy station

Plans are afoot for a new TV channel dedicated to British comedy.

UKTV, the company behind such channels as UK Gold and UK Horizons, is reportedly considering launching UK Comedy later this year.

However, the company previously failed with its music and comedy channel Play UK, which closed down in September.

Most of Play UK's comedy output, such as Shooting Stars and Goodness Gracious Me was picked up by UK Gold, which would have to change its schedules should the new channel launch.

UK Comedy - which is also expected to pick up reruns of The Office - would also rival the Paramount Comedy Channel, which relies on imported hits such as Frasier and Seinfeld, in the battle for viewers.

UKTV, a joint venture between the BBC and Flextech, is also planning channels dedicated to DIY and nature, trade magazine Broadcast reports.

Published: 14 Feb 2003