UKTV to move to Television Centre

UKTV is part of the BBC Studios’ Global Channels and Streaming division, and the move is designed to save costs while enabling UKTV staff to collaborate more closely with BBC Studios teams.

However, UKTV stressed that it will remain a distinct business. UKTV will have its own designated space within Television Centre, meaning the company can maintain its distinct identity, brand presence, and workplace culture.

The move is also expected to strengthen collaboration with other parts of BBC Studios, including its global production operations and BritBox.

Television Centre was the headquarters of BBC Television from 1960 to 2013, when BBC Television moved to Broadcasting House.

The building has been extensively refurbished as flats and offices, retaining three television studios on the site, including the biggest, TC1. BBC Studios, the BBC's commercial production and sales arm, has its headquarters on the site.

Sam Tewungwa, Chief Executive, UKTV, said: “This is a positive and natural move for UKTV. As well as contributing to cost savings across the BBC Group, it will support closer collaboration with our BBC Studios colleagues in an inspiring environment with excellent facilities. UKTV will retain its distinct identity, brand presence and highly valued culture”.

Meanwhile, UKTV has launched eight new free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels in the UK dedicated to brands such as Top Gear and Antiques Roadshow.

The eight channels will launch before the end of the year across LG Channels and Freely, providing access to hundreds of episodes from BBC programmes spanning drama, entertainment, lifestyle, and factual programming.

The new channels are: Antiques Roadshow on U; Bargain Hunt on U; Casualty on U; DIY SOS on U; EastEnders on U; Gardeners' World on U; Holby City on U; and Top Gear on U.

The new FAST channels build on UKTV's existing FAST portfolio of U&Laughs, U&Transport, U&Real Heroes and U&The Past, which will also launch on LG Channels and Freely.

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