NTL, Telewest complete merger

The long-awaited merger between NTL and Telewest, Britain's two largest cable operators, was completed on Friday.

Former shareholders of NTL and Telewest will own approximately 75% and 25% respectively of the new company, which is known as NTL Incorporated.

“This combination of two industry leaders positions us to better fulfill our commitment to serve our customers,” said Jim Mooney, NTL chairman. “We are grateful for the strong support for this merger demonstrated by stockholders, customers, employees and the communities we serve. We are excited to now move forward as one entity that has the experience and resources of both companies, coupled with an unsurpassed breadth of communication products.”

The company emphasised in today's announcement that on the consumer side, "business as usual" will continue with no changes yet in the pipeline for products or brand names.