Arqiva offers new Freeview channels

Arqiva has launched a tender process for interested parties wishing to launch new propositions on "additional" channels available on the Freeview platform.

According to the transmission firm, the two new channel slots will be able to broadcast 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Arqiva is the licence holder for multiplexes C and D, which principally make up the Freeview platform. However, the company stressed that the available slots will be used for TV channels only, and not radio, data or any other related service.

Speaking to Digital Spy, Arqiva director of digital terrestrial broadcast platforms Mike Finchen said: "We are advertising two additional TV slots on new capacity made possible by the digital switchover. Via this process Arqiva will consider proposals for a variety of TV formats and broadcast hours."

A deadline of 12pm on October 30 has been set for any interested parties to submit their proposals.