Sky is to test an online news and sports service next year, dedicated to local content from Tyne and Wear, as the broadcaster looks to capitalise on the demand for local online content and the lucrative online classifieds market.
The site will feature video, text and images produced by the team, along with additional support from Sky News and Sky Sports News.
The Tyne and Wear-based site will run for six months in 2012. The broadcaster is recruiting 13 journalists to create content.
Simon Bucks, associate editor for Sky News wrote on the Sky blog he hoped the service would prove as popular with residents as with those who have left the area.
“In common with many journalists, I worked in local news at the start of my career, so I know why a sense of connection with events in your local community is so highly valued by many people. Events on your own doorstep inevitably resonate more than those further afield,” said Bucks.
“This pilot will test our belief that there’s an opportunity to supplement existing sources of local news with a vibrant and dynamic video-focused website, adhering to the high editorial and presentational standards Sky sets itself.”
He added that Sky will look to roll the pilot out to other regions if it proves a success.