Five 'ready to join Project Canvas'

Five has made a step closer to getting involved with the BBC, ITV and BT joint venture Project Canvas, according to the Daily Telegraph.

The BBC Trust recently delayed its decision on whether the corporation can remain part of the project, which aims to create an open platform for VOD content.

However, a source close to Canvas told the newspaper that the Trust could make a firm decision on this in September, while Five is also now close to joining the scheme.

"The Trust said it will outline its timetable in July so the partners are expecting a decision on whether the BBC can remain a partner by September," said the source.

"Both Channel 4 and Five have been considering joining the venture - however the issue has been the material amount of money they would have to part with to do so. It's a big consideration in economically challenging times. However Five is now very close to signing the deal."

A spokesperson for Five added: "We're supportive of the project. We have always said we would like to be a member of the consortium, but I cannot discuss time-frames."

Channel 4, meanwhile, told Digital Spy today that it is unsure about whether it will participate in Canvas.