Belfast is to get its own local TV station with UK media watchdog Ofcom inviting bidders to submit applications for the broadcast licence.
Bidding is now open for the licence, which will provide a 12-month service to Belfast residents. Ofcom will make its final decision on applications in the autumn.
The media regulator announced in December last its proposals for awarding the first round of local TV licences in 21 areas across Northern Ireland and the UK.
Belfast was the only Northern Irish-based area to be chosen, with cities like Edinburgh, Cardiff and London also chosen to set up local stations.
The new channels are expected to launch next year, and will offer coverage to all terrestrial viewers in Belfast, with talk of expanding the service to satellite and cable viewers.
Licences will be awarded based on the topics the stations plan to cover, such as local news and current affairs, and commercial viability.
Ofcom is also calling on operators to install the networks in the 21 chosen areas. This job will include providing masts and transmission equipment so the service can be broadcast into homes.
The BBC will provide up to £25m (€30m) for the project to get off the ground as part of the UK licence fee agreement.
To apply for a licence, applicants must fill out the relevant forms on
Ofcom before Monday, August 13.
