BBC1 and BBC3 have effectively been given a clean bill of health by the the corporation’s strategy review - but BBC2 is to get a new emphasis on state-of-the-nation drama and riskier comedy.

Of the BBC’s four main channels, BBC2 is facing the biggest changes proposed in the Putting Quality First review. It will get an extra £25m to spend from 2013 with an eye on boosting distinctiveness.

That means:

  • Increasing the volume and range of strongly authored drama, reflecting the state of the nation and of the world through contemporary and historical subject matter, including single films and new series
  • Ensuring a stronger role for BBC2 comedy, developing UK writers and performers with a unique but accessible take on the world, complemented by more risky, innovative comedies
  • Making BBC Two the home of ambitious knowledge-building programmes, with a wide range of specialist subjects and more authored, expert programmes
  • Reducing the volume of sport broadcast on BBC Two

The emphasis on signature drama will see BBC2 will offer a “unique space for UK writers and directors to explore new forms, topics, concepts and stories”. In comedy, the BBC explicitly wants the channel to “support the cult classics of the future”.

The plan to “re-establish” the channel as “the home of intelligent and ambitious drama, comedy and factual programming” will dovetail with a shift in focus for BBC4.

It appears to be going back to its more highbrow roots, with the BBC promising it will “reaffirm its original commitment to support arts, music, culture and knowledge as well as offering a thoughtful showcase for the best of the television archive”.

There will be a reduction in entertainment and comedy on BBC4 and its relationship with BBC2 will evolve.

The corproation said: “The distinct roles of the two channels will be better defined but they will continue to operate in a complementary way - resulting in a stronger, combined contribution to arts, music, culture and knowledge.”

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