UKTV to debut drama net

UKTV is launching a new channel on the digital terrestrial platform dedicated to British drama.

Called simply Drama, it is UKTV’s first new net for four years and brings its portfolio to 11, joining the likes of Really, Dave, Yesterday, Watch and Good Food.

The BBC Worldwide/Scripps Networks Interactive joint venture is stocking up with series including Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, The Cinder Path, Sharpe, Tipping the Velvet, Auf Wiedersehen Pet, Cranford and Lark Rise to Candleford.

Drama will launch on Freeview on July 8.

“The channel is aimed at people who simply love drama and want to watch critically acclaimed shows that have absolutely defined the landscape of British television,” said UKTV controller Emma Tennant.

Adrian Wills, who already oversees Yesterday, will be Drama’s general manager.

UKTV increased is original production budget for 2013 to £100m (US$152m) and added two new commissioning editors to its team recently, but Drama will initially focus on finished shows.