ITV has inked a "long-term" deal with satellite operator Astra for more new capacity at 28.2oE.

The broadcaster, which already leases five transponders, has secured an additional 16Mbits of transmission space, allowing it to launch 4 or 5 standard definition channels.

The space will be available from October and will be used for new services, "such as interactive programming".

Mick Desmond, Chief Executive of ITV Broadcasting, said: "In order to continue ITV's successful digital strategy we need to ensure that we have the transmission capacity to meet our future strategic objectives. We believe that digital TV will play an important role in maintaining our pre-eminent position as the UK's largest commercial broadcaster; the additional capacity will enable ITV to build on our successful family of digital channels and offer digital audiences the best programming and services available."