Arqiva on its own in bid for Project Kangaroo technology

No deal has yet been agreed, but it is understood that Arqiva is the only company now in the running to buy the technology. It is understood that the deal could reach six figures.

It is also understood Orange, the France-based communications giant with operations across Europe, pulled out of the running at an earlier stage.

Arqiva, owned by acquisitive Australian bank Macquarie, provides much of the infrastructure behind the UK's television, radio and wireless communications services.

Among other services, it provides transmission networks for BBC Radio and most commercial radio stations, plus it owns and operates two of the six UK digital terrestrial TV multiplexes.

Arqiva is no stranger to the shareholders of Kangaroo, ITV, Channel 4 and BBC Worldwide. The three broadcasters are among its biggest customers.

ITV, Channel 4 and BBC Worldwide had planned to launch Project Kangaroo this year. However, its launch was blocked by the Competition Commission after the regulator deemed it to be anti-competitive.

Arquiva and Project Kangaroo declined to comment.

This article was first published on mediaweek.co.uk