MTV Networks is stepping up the plans for a 24-hour network aimed at gays and lesbians.

In development for more than two years, the channel, to be called Outlet, failed to launch in 2002 because MTV had wanted to make it a pay channel.

When that strategy didn’t work, MTV repositioned Outlet as a digital, basic cable network with ads.

MTV has had to change its programming blueprint however – planning more lifestyle shows rather than hard-edged series and movies.