Foxtel has announced scheduling changes to its linear channel line-up for financial reasons, as well as to improve audience optimisation.

Effective 11 October, both Foxtel Arts and Foxtel Smooth (which is operated under a brand licence from NOVA Entertainment’s smoothfm) will share the same broadcast signal, while still occupying two channel numbers (133 and 806).

The two channels will be day-parted, with Smooth programming throughout the day and overnight from midnight to 6pm, and Foxtel Arts content scheduled from 6pm to midnight, daily.

This change means that, for the first time, Foxtel Arts will be available to all Foxtel customers, irrespective of their subscription package.

Furthermore, Lifestyle YOU will cease broadcasting with key programming, moving to The Lifestyle Channel, Arena and On Demand, as Foxtel looks to streamline and improve its service.

Foxtel’s executive director of TV, Brian Walsh, said: “We have taken this decision because it makes a lot of sense both in financial terms and audience optimisation.

“Foxtel Smooth’s peak audiences are in daytime, whilst for Arts, audiences tune in during the evening, so this is really about combining the best of both worlds for our customers.

“Yes, this is consolidation. However, as our television and video world continues to evolve, it is imperative we review every aspect of the business.”