The new channel, which is expected to begin broadcasting at the end of the year constitutes the largest single investment by the BBC North of the border in more than 20 years. This decision will now allow the broadcaster to step up its new plans for the channel, according to Ofcom the final decision will be released by July 2018.

Steve Carson, multi-platform commissioning head at BBC Scotland said of the decision: “This is very welcome news as we continue to develop our proposals. Careful planning has been underway over the past year and we can now build on that following today’s announcement.”

“We’re planning a channel for modern Scotland, a home for compelling, quality content that appeals to and reflects the diversity of Scottish audiences. It will enable viewers in Scotland to see more of their lives, stories and interests on screen as well as offering the chance to watch great content from elsewhere.”

Content for Scottish Audiences

The BBC has been accused by the SNP of neglecting its Scottish audience, especially during the independence referendum, which saw Yes voters protesting outside the BBC Scotland headquarters on the river Clyde. They complained that the BBC only spent £30 million a year on Scottish programming, even though it earned £320m a year from Scottish licence fees in Scotland.

The new channel will create at least 80 new journalism jobs in Scotland to help produce their one-hour weeknight news and current affairs programme. Scottish newspapers and other online news platforms have voiced concerns that the new channel would increase competition and see their staff being poached.

Ofcom has said it will monitor the situation and could launch a fresh competition assessment if it came to light that the channel was unfairly affecting its rivals. News and current affairs will be at the heart of the new channel, but it will also focus on new dramas and factual channels. While there will be new content there will also be repeats, which some have said will reduce the channel’s appeal.