The BBC says it is “considering the case” for bringing back BBC Three for linear transmission. It’s also expected to receive an increase to its programming budget.
The channel went online only in 2016 in a £30 million cost saving, though many of its shows are also seen on BBC One and BBC Two.
In recent weeks BBC Three has enjoyed a series of ratings successes with programmes including Normal People, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and Stacey Dooley investigates.
An announcement is expected as part of the BBC’s Annual Plan that will be revealed on Wednesday.
However, a return for BBC Three is also likely to be accompanied by cutbacks in other areas, with arts network BBC Four potentially facing the axe.
The corporation’s income has also been reduced by £125 million as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak.
