The BBC is to broadcast a behind-the-scenes programme looking at the work of libel lawyers as part of a new weekly documentary strand due to launch on BBC One next year.
BBC One controller Jay Hunt told an industry conference in London this morning that a new series of single documentaries would air after the 10 O’Clock News on Tuesday nights starting next spring.
Documentaries already confirmed include a programme looking at the sinking of the Marchioness riverboat in 1989, featuring interviews with people suffering from survivor guilt.
“I want to find a bespoke home for documentaries,” Hunt told the Voice of the Listener and Viewer autumn conference.
“In a way the focus of it is it hasn’t got a focus. I think sometimes historically when you create documentaries there’s a desperate attempt to craft a story to make it fit a strand.
“What I want to do is create a place on the channel where the widest possible range of voices can be heard.”
Hunt also confirmed that BBC One would be introducing more factual science programming next summer, including a new magazine show.
In 2003, BBC One axed its long-running science show, Tomorrow’s World, blaming poor ratings.
“I want to bring science back to a regular slot on the channel,” Hunt said. “Next summer a brand new magazine show with a brand new title featuring a diverse team of presenters will come back to BBC One.”
Hunt said the BBC was in something of a “luxurious” position to continue producing news and current affairs at a time when ITV looks to be retrenching.
“To me that’s not a burden but a real luxury,” she said. “Is there an opportunity there for the BBC? It’s absolutely core to what the channel should be doing anyway and one I embrace whole-heartedly.
“Certainly they [ITV] are doing less of it, yes I think they are. Is that a burden that we pick up? Yes, but I suppose my point is we do it willingly.”
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog