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With Swansea and Cardiff in the running to bid for licences to allow them to launch their own stations, Wales Office Minister David Jones has yesterday encouraged Welsh production companies to bid. 

Mr Jones said: 

“Ofcom is now inviting companies to submit their bids to help shape the next generation of community programming in Wales. With Swansea and Cardiff in the first tranche of established networks, I know we have a number of eligible contenders. We have a strong and competitive Welsh media and Local TV will ensure that appetite for local and community programming is met in a tailored but sustainable way, for future generations to enjoy.” 

Potential operators now have until 13 August to apply to Ofcom for a licence.  Ofcom will award the licence based on a set of criteria including: provision of local news and current affairs; proposals for programmes; planned launch date; and viability of the business plan. The first 21 areas were selected by Ofcom for having sufficient levels of interest from potential operators and being technically capable of receiving a local TV service. 

Notes to editors:

More information on the Government’s plans for local television in available here:

http://www.culture.gov.uk/news/news_stories/9053.aspx