The BBC has confirmed the launch date for the return of BBC Three as a linear channel on satellite and terrestrial tv services.

BBC Three was closed as a linear channel back in 2016, with the youth-skewing channels content being available only through online platforms, within branded blocks on the BBC’s other channels. But with the popularity of some of this content, the decision has been made to make BBC Three a linear channel once again.

BBC Three will return on

February 1, 2021 and will broadcast from 7pm each evening.

BBC Three will be available on Freeview, Sky, Virgin and Freesat, and will continue on BBC iPlayer.

No changes will be required for those using these platforms, as their set top boxes will automatically update the channel list for the new channels.

BBC Three schedule will start at 7pm. This means that CBBC will stop its schedule at 659pm

The launch night will feature programmes including RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and Normal People. Later in the week, there will be coverage of the semi-final of the Africa Cup of Nations.