Thats TV offers a unique blend of nostalgic and local programming.
Launched in 2012, it has expanded its reach through strategic acquisitions and now operates multiple regional production centers.
You’ll find a curated mix of shows from the 60s, 80s, and 90s, along with themed days dedicated to each decade.
Its local services, tailored to areas like Oxford and Solent, foster community engagement.
However, it has faced criticism for technical issues, delays, and limited local news content.
For a deeper understanding of its operations and challenges, keep exploring.
Quick Summary
- Thats TV started in 2012 and expanded to regions like Solent, Guildford, and Carlisle.
- Programming features nostalgic shows from the 60s, 80s, and 90s, with themed days for specific decades.
- Local services provide tailored content for regions such as Oxford, Solent, and Manchester.
- Faced criticism for technical issues, delays, and limited local news content.
- Consolidated operations to seven regional production centers in July 2019 for a national presence.
History
How did Thats TV evolve from a single local TV service in Oxfordshire to a nationally recognised network?
It all began in September 2012 when Thats TV was awarded its first local TV service license for Oxfordshire.
From there, it expanded into other regions such as Solent, Guildford, and Carlisle. Strategic acquisitions followed, with licenses for York, Cambridge, and Norfolk.
However, in July 2019, the network consolidated its operations, reducing from 20 studios to seven regional production centers. This streamlining set the stage for its national presence.
Programming
Thats TV’s programming strategy skillfully blends nostalgia with variety, offering viewers a curated selection of shows from the 60s, 80s, and 90s.
You’ll find classic TV series like ‘Steptoe and Son’ and ‘Goodnight Sweetheart,’ alongside iconic movies and music videos.
The channel caters to a broad age range, from young adults to older people, tapping into their fondness for retro content.
Structured schedules rotate content by era throughout the day, with themed days dedicated to specific decades and special event programming on holidays.
Drama series such as ‘Humans’ and ‘In Deep’ keep you engaged with intense synth hunts and investigations.
This strategic mix ensures you’re always entertained with compelling storylines and nostalgic favourites.
Local Services
While the nostalgic programming captures nationwide attention, the network’s local services guarantee that viewers in regions like Oxford, Solent, and Manchester receive tailored content that resonates with their unique communities.
Thats TV’s strategic acquisition of stations such as Cambridge TV and Mustard TV has bolstered its local presence, expanding coverage to areas like Carlisle and York.
By operating through regional production centres, the network makes certain that each area’s specific interests and needs are met.
This localised approach not only fosters community engagement but also differentiates Thats TV from other networks that offer more generic, nationwide content.
Consequently, viewers enjoy a richer, more relevant viewing experience that strengthens regional identity and community cohesion.
Criticism
The network’s ambitious growth hasn’t been without its challenges, as Thats TV has faced significant criticism for technical issues, delays, and perceived biases in its content.
In March 2016, three stations were placed on notice by Ofcom due to technical problems. Launch delays plagued some stations, adding to the network’s struggles.
Additionally, founder Esther Rantzen’s resignation in May 2015 marked a significant shift for the network.
Critics have highlighted various issues:
- Technical issues: Persistent problems leading to regulatory scrutiny.
- Launch delays: Stations not starting as planned.
- Limited local news: Only half an hour of local content per day by February 2020.
- Perceived biases: Content perceived as favoring certain ideas or controversies.
These factors have collectively influenced public perception of Thats TV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Can I Watch That’s TV in the UK?
You can watch it on major UK platforms like Sky, Freesat, Freeview, and Virgin Media. Specifically, tune into Freeview Channels 7, 8, 56, 65, 77, or 78 depending on your region for access.
Who Owns That’s TV Channel?
The That’s TV channel is owned by the That’s TV Group. They operate multiple local TV stations across the UK and hold licenses for various regional TV services, focusing on local television broadcasting.
What’s Happened to That’s TV?
You’re witnessing a decline in operational scale and quality. They’ve faced regulatory issues, downsized production considerably, and provided minimal local news content. Criticisms of bias and unmet deadlines have further damaged their reputation and operational effectiveness.
What Channel Number Is That’s TV on Freeview?
You can find the channel on Freeview at varying numbers: 7 or 8 depending on your location. In Manchester, check channels 77 and 78. Nationally, it’s also on channels 56, 65, 71, and 75.
Conclusion
You’ve now journeyed through the history, programming, and local services of That’s TV, gaining a thorough understanding of its impact.
While it’s clear the network has faced criticism, it’s also evident that it has carved out a unique niche in local broadcasting.
By analysing both its strengths and weaknesses, you can appreciate the complexities of regional television.
Ultimately, That’s TV represents a microcosm of the broader challenges and opportunities within the media landscape.