New ten-year public service broadcast licence for Channel 4
October 15, 2024 11.32 Europe/London By Julian Clover


Ofcom has made pubic its decisions on a new broadcast licence for Channel 4.

Research conducted by the regulator shows the commercially funded public broadcaster remains a “valued part” of the UK broadcasting landscape. It also found Channel 4 continues to deliver content promoting new and diverse voices and perspectives, and has a crucial role in supporting the creative economy outside London.

Cristina Nicolotti Squires, Ofcom’s Group Director, Broadcasting and Media, said the new licence is the best outcome for audiences and for Channel 4. “It strikes the right balance between giving Channel 4 the flexibility to support its digital transformation, while safeguarding highly-valued distinctive programming on its traditional channel for the long term.”

The new 10-year licence – the first since 2014 – follows a nine-month industry consultation. It comes at a time when Channel 4 is facing financial challenges, brought about by fluctuations in the broadcasting market, declining audience share, and a weakening brand recognition among the younger viewers who have traditionally made up Channel 4’s core audience.

“The new licence provides clarity for the next decade as we deliver our unique public service remit – investing in distinctive British content and trusted news for audiences and supporting the growth of the creative economy across the UK,” said Alex Mahon, Chief Executive, Channel 4.

As with many other broadcasters, Channel 4 is seeing a threat from streaming services. Its response has been to set out a strategy to transform itself into a “digital-first public service streamer” by 2030.

Under the new licence Channel 4 must increase its production spend and programme hours made in the UK outside of England – from 9% to 12%. The increased quota’s must be met by 2030, though in a letter to the regulator Channel 4 says it will strive to meet the quotas earlier. The end credits of Channel 4 shows already indicate where a show has been produced.