Spanish broadcaster Telecinco has acquired a 35% stake in TV and interactive content producer Multipark Madrid (MPM). The two companies plan to develop new thematic channels for TV as well as content for the internet.

The move forms part of Telecinco's entry into digital content and interactive link-ups. Earlier this year the broadcaster launched a 24-hour internet news channel and a Spanish version of European portal Jumpy. Telecinco has also been tapped by the UK's Carlton Communications to consider a Euros50m contribution to a pan-European investment pool to fund internet and interactive television acquisitions.

MPM currently produces and markets four thematic channels for pay-TV including Canal Cosmopolitan (a 50-50 joint venture with Hearst Entertainment), Canal Cocina (in collaboration with Videomedia), Tribunal TV and Telemadrid SAT. The company manages its own production studio and recently launched an entertainment web guide to Madrid.

After the transaction, MPM's shares will be split between Telecinco (35%), regional broadcaster TeleMadrid (35%) and bank Caja Madrid (30%).

Meanwhile, Telecinco rival Antena 3 today announced a new agreement with digital satcaster Via Digital whereby Via will incorporate the free-to-air broadcaster in its Basic Package. Via and Antena 3 are both majority backed by Telefonica Media - 68.5% in the case of Via, and 49% in the case of Antena 3.