C4 ups More4 budget; confirms more details

Channel 4 has increased the budget of its new factual station More4 by 10% to £33 million.

The broadcaster intends to spend at least £20 million of the allocation on original content, with large amounts reserved for signature "events" each month.

Controller Peter Dale is currently finalising programming plans for the channel, which is due to launch in October.

Acquired shows include political drama The West Wing and The Daily Show, a topical series from the US. More4 will also repeat a number of C4 shows from the genres of lifestyle and leisure alongside reruns of factual documentaries. Regular films are also expected to form part of the schedule.

"We’ve got ambitious programming plans for More4 including original content designed to appeal to viewers who want to be stimulated as well as entertained by intelligent programmes," said Dale.

"A key focus will be on building a channel that feels of the moment and engages with viewers over important issues of the day. More4 represents a significant new investment in digital for Channel 4 and will enable us to strengthen our public service contribution in a multi-channel environment."

More4 will be on air between 4pm and 6am daily.