Struggling Liverpool broadcaster Bay TV is set to be bought out just days after it went into administration.
Made Television, the largest operator of City TV Stations in the UK, is to acquire the local television station, subject to approval by the regulator Ofcom.
Jamie Conway, CEO of Made Television, said: “We are delighted to be adding a new station to our growing network. Liverpool is a vibrant, exciting city and we’re looking forward to producing original, home-grown programming content that will encapsulate the energy of Liverpool life and provide viewers with enhanced viewing access via Sky Guide 117.”
Made TV was one of three enterprises bidding for Bay TV Liverpool, which was taken over by administrators last week.
The company had tried to seek a deal with its creditors over debts of £450,000, but last week staff at the company were sent letters from the administrators, Skelmersdale-based Refresh Recovery, saying the company would continue broadcasting while an attempt was made to sell it as a going concern.
Made TV had previously invested in the company, and has now joined with members of the Bay TV management team to acquire 100% of the Liverpool station, to be re-named Made in Liverpool.
Mr Conway added: “City TV is a fledgling industry and there will inevitably be successes and failures along the way. While some have read into Bay TV’s situation as detrimental to the industry, we are committed to investing in this important and nascent new sector in television as are the management team of Bay TV who we are proud to work with.
“Made in Liverpool provides an exciting opportunity to share our resource and expertise still further, bringing engaging local content to a whole new set of viewers in Liverpool.”
Bay TV have been approached for comment.
© 2016 Trinity Mirror Merseyside.