Channel 4 are set to close all but one of their Channel 4 SD regional versions.

With C4HD being the default on Sky HD and Freesat HD boxes on channel number 104, there is little need for all 6 C4 SD regions to be transmitting.

By closing down 5 C4 SD regions, this should free up capacity on the C4 satellite transponders, hopefully making way to move the 5 C4HD regions that are currently residing on “borrowed” Sky transponders…that are on frequencies that make reception in my service area tricky.

This means that on 1st July 2024

• Sky and Freesat standard definition boxes will continue to receive Channel 4 in SD on channel number 104, but with a single “London” version
• Sky and Freesat HD boxes will continue to receive C4HD on channel number 104, with channel 804 on Sky HD boxes showing the single C4 “London” region.

This is confirmed by the weekly update from Sky about channel changes

• Channel 4 South SD, Channel 4 Midlands SD, Channel 4 North SD, Channel 4 Scotland SD and Channel 4 Ulster SD close and are replaced with Channel 4 London SD at 104(108 Wales)This change only impacts viewers with SD-only boxes. All other boxes get Channel 4 HD at the top of the EPG.

This move could be the signaling of all C4 SD regions to be closing in the near future. No news about the Channel 4 +1 service, but assume these will continue for the foreseeable future.

And this may prompt ITV to start to close their SD channels, inline with ITV3 and ITV4 that are only available in HD via satellite, freeing up capacity on their transponders, and enable the move of the 5 or so ITV1 HD regions that are on very weak signals in my service area

About Channel 4

Channel 4 is a distinctive part of the UK broadcasting landscape, created to offer an alternative voice to the BBC and ITV. It launched on 2 November 1982, following the 1980 Broadcasting Act, with a public service remit that emphasised innovation, diversity, and programmes for minority audiences. Unlike the BBC and ITV, Channel 4 was set up as a publisher-broadcaster, commissioning programmes from independent production companies rather than making them in-house. This model helped stimulate the UK’s independent production sector and permanently reshaped British television.

In its early years, Channel 4 quickly gained a reputation for bold, experimental and sometimes controversial programming. Shows such as Brookside, The Tube and Dispatches tackled social issues and new formats that were rarely seen elsewhere on UK television. The channel became known for taking creative risks and giving a platform to new talent, particularly in drama, comedy and factual programming.

Originally funded by ITV companies, Channel 4 became financially independent in 1993, allowed to sell its own advertising while remaining publicly owned. This change enabled it to compete more directly in an increasingly commercial television market. Over time, it expanded into digital broadcasting with channels such as E4, More4 and Film4, broadening its appeal while retaining its public service obligations.

In the 21st century, Channel 4 has continued to adapt to changing viewing habits, investing heavily in online and on-demand services through All 4, now rebranded as Channel 4 Streaming. Despite debates over funding models and proposals for privatisation, Channel 4 has remained publicly owned, continuing its mission to challenge, innovate and reflect the diversity of modern Britain.