BBC STUDIOS EXPANDS

BBC Studios gains approval to launch as a commercial entity

By JOSEPH O???HALLORAN

e-bbc_studios_21_dec

Following an extensive regulatory assessment and public consultation, BBC Studios has secured approval to launch as a commercial subsidiary.

The approval ??? described by the BBC as a landmark move as part of its plans to transform the way it produces and supplies content ??? means that the UK public broadcaster???s production arm will be able to make programmes for other broadcasters and customers. BBC Studios is set to launch as a wholly-owned subsidiary in April 2017. It will be committed to supporting the BBC???s public service mission and profits will return to the BBC Group. Even with the sealing of its latest charter guaranteeing funding for the next eleven years, the BBC says that in an increasingly competitive market, it is important to sustain a strong production arm, as well as supporting a vibrant indie sector to ensure a secure supply of quality content for its audiences and best value for Licence Fee payers. The corporation adds that enabling BBC Studios to compete in the market and make content for new channels and audiences, outside of Licence Fee funding, will help the production teams to attract and retain the best creative talent and ???ensure that the BBC continues to be the world???s greatest programme maker.??? Commented BBC Director General Tony Hall: ???We are renowned and celebrated around the world for the quality of our programmes. I am delighted that our plans have been approved. BBC Studios will soon be able to produce bold, British, creative content for other broadcasters and services, as well as the BBC. BBC Studios is vital to the BBC???s future success – I want to ensure we remain the best programme makers in the world through the coming decades.???