BBC1 vows to halve repeats by 2009

Published Friday 7 July 2006 at 16:40 by Liz Thomas

The BBC has stepped up its commitment to get more new shows on to BBC1 in peak time, pledging to halve the number of repeats on the channel by 2009.

Figures released in today’s annual report show that the number of repeats broadcast on the station dropped from 9.7% in 2004/5 to 8.9% in 2005/6. This move is in line with targets set out after the board of governors held a consultation with the public.

However now the board have said that this figure must drop even further by 2009 and to take more risks with programming and cut back on shows that have exceeded their shelf life.

The report said: “The BBC’s distinctiveness from the commercial sector must be evident in a willingness to take creative risks - even if that means the inevitable occasional failure. But it also requires the confidence to end successful programmes that have reached the end of their natural creative life, to create space for the next round of innovation.”

In recent weeks there have been swingeing cuts on stalwart shows such as Top of the Pops and They Think It’s All Over. The Vicar of Dibley is another favourite that will not return after a Christmas special this year.