by political editor Paul Francis

A decision on the future of Kent TV, Kent County Council's controversial internet TV channel, has been delayed until the New Year.

KCC had been expected to decide whether to continue with the initiative, which has to date cost about £1.8million, before Christmas.

The channel, which is operated for KCC by Ten Alps, has a contract until March and the council has recently invited tenders for the project in anticipation of its decision.

Now it is understood County Hall's ruling Conservative administration is to decide in early January whether to go ahead with a new four-year contract.
The deadline will give the council more time to weigh up bids from other potential operators of the channel.

Around 24 companies have signalled their interest in taking over the contract - but KCC has already admitted that if it does carry on with Kent TV, further public subsidies are likely.

The potential level of taxpayers' subsidy has not been determined.

Last month, Cllr Paul Carter said while Kent TV had enormous potential, the jury was still out on whether it ought to continue.