The launch of Jordan's first private television station ATV has been delayed after the government requested more paperwork.

"ATV's launch has been delayed because the government asked us to provide them with more documents related to the licensing," the new channel’s managing director Mohammed Al Khatib was quoted as saying by Middle East Times.

The launch was scheduled for August 1.

"We gave them the documents and we are awaiting their response. We can't set a new date for going on air, which was initially slated for Wednesday, until we get the government's go-ahead."

Khatib said the new terrestrial and satellite channel, Jordanian United TV Broadcasting Company (ATV), sought to "become a pioneer in the local media scene" and offer viewers an alternative to state-run Jordan Television.