ITV will have axed 1,000 jobs by February 2009, the broadcaster confirmed today.

Headcount has already reduced by 425 after cuts in its press and publicity, finance, commercial and global content units. Two months into 2009, headcount will have been reduced by close to the 1,000 mark, with the majority of further cuts - "approximately 430" - coming out of its regional news operations across the UK. It is understood that the cuts will include journalists and other broadcast staff as the number of regions is reduced from 17 to 9.

"We are committed to a self-help, self-funding solution to securing ITV's future," said ITV chief operating officer John Cresswell. "In order to sustain our investment in UK content, we have to keep on top of our cost base."