BBC Three to return as broadcast channel in February 2022

Charlotte Whyatt • 26 Nov 2021 News

It's been online-only since 2016.

BBC Three will return as a broadcast channel in February 2022, Ofcom has confirmed. 

Plans to resurrect it were initially announced last September but the industry regulator has now officially approved the decision. 

This is on the condition that at least 75% of the hours broadcast each year are original programs commissioned by the BBC for U.K viewers. 

The channel will be available to watch on Freeview, Freesat, Sky and Virgin Media with specific EPG numbers to be announced soon.

BBC Three went online-only back in 2016 due to both government budget cuts and the desire to attract a younger audience. 

The overwhelming success of its programs like Normal People, Fleabag, This Country and Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK however prompted the broadcaster to rethink their decision. 

“This is a big moment, with the new channel providing a destination for young audiences to discover more content on the BBC,” said Fiona Campbell, Controller for BBC Three. 

“We will work hand in hand with iPlayer to provide a broad offering that is representative of the whole of the U.K. and we will continue to back new talent and bold ideas.”

Source: Variety