Consultation: Proposed new BBC DAB+ radio stations and proposed changes to Radio 5 Sports Extra

The BBC is proposing changes to its radio services. These two sets of proposals are:

• the launch of four new DAB+ music radio stations; and
• to extend the broadcasting hours of Radio 5 Sports Extra, changing it from a part-time service offering live sports only, to a service broadcasting daily from 9am-7pm.

Radio remains the most popular form of audio content, although its popularity is gradually declining. Audio streaming is increasingly popular, particularly among younger audiences.

The BBC’s audio services span analogue radio, digital radio and online in the form of BBC Sounds. Reach of BBC radio has fallen in recent years as more listening has moved online and commercial providers have developed new, targeted offerings which have successfully appealed to audiences. However, despite this decline, BBC radio continues to occupy a key position in the UK radio market. In our monitoring of the audio market we have noted that changes to the BBC’s radio services have the potential to have a bigger impact on domestic commercial radio providers than the impact from changes limited to BBC Sounds.

We welcome the BBC’s aim to connect with audiences whom it needs to do more to reach and are supportive of its attempts to innovate. The BBC (in common with other public service broadcasters) is finding it challenging to reach younger audiences – something that presents a long-term risk to the sustainability of the PSBs. The BBC has also found it harder to connect with audiences in lower socio-economic groups.

However, in attempting to reach these audiences via radio, where the BBC remains strong, the BBC has not made compelling, well-evidenced assessments of the public value across the range of its proposals. Some of these proposals also have the potential to have a bigger impact on competition than if the BBC had explored more innovative ways to connect with these listeners.

Responding to this consultation

Please submit responses by using the consultation response form by 5pm on 14 May 2025.