Viewers in Meridian's West micro-region will now have bulletins presented from the main Southampton, after years of those bulletins being broadcast from the news centre in Newbury.

Agreement from the Independent Television Commission has been granted for the move, after Granada-owned Meridian promised to "ensure the volume and quality of news for the Meridian West sub region is maintained at the current levels of provision and to ensure investment is directed to the programme service."

Meridian is moving out of its current Newbury site, which was established after the take-over from previous southern ITV franchise holder, TVS. The new premises will "remain accessible" and will house reporters, camera teams, technical and editorial support for the West news service. The new news bureau will also maintain a mini-studio for interviews and the ability to cover breaking news in the region.

Sarah Thane, the ITC's Director of Programmes and Advertising, said: "When changes are proposed to premises and studios, the key test is to ensure that the level of service to viewers is maintained. By keeping a Newbury news bureau and maintaining a locally based newsgathering strength, the Commission believes that these changes protect viewers' interests in the Meridian West area."