BBC Four & CBBC to close

[johnnyboy]

Now I don't like the decision to close the CBBC channel but I think that is the better option than merging it with CBBC.  However I don't think in the evenings it should be a choice between BBC3 or BBC4, and we can't keep having this cycle where one of the is closed only to be reinstated down the track.  For me you replace them both, and with the buzz word to cover this round of cuts being "Digital First" you can cater to both audiences with a new channel operating in a non-traditional form.  I think the solution here is quite obvious - "BBC Boxsets".  Each night from 9pm they show either a complete series of a sitcom, whether classic or for BBC3, or a drama over a couple of nights, or a documentary.  It allows for a mix of new and archive content, a mix of content primarily commissioned for BBC iPlayer or series airing on BBC1/2 but available as a boxset.  It brings a digital approach to the linear environment, and it doesn't leave them with hours to fill for the sake of it.  Just close for the night once the show of the evening is done, or rerun it if there is time

I like this idea. It actually reminds me of the original remit of BBC Choice with their weekend night catch-ups although I appreciate your suggestion is different.

They need to have a long-term approach, like you say, which focuses on delivering a set number of services. If the budgets change, they make the changes needed to continue delivering services to the highest quality.

The question is, and it's one on which we as a forum can't agree, which services?