The BBC has announced revised plans for Radio 2 and Radio 5 Sports Extra, incorporating industry feedback.
- The initial plans faced criticism, prompting a public interest test by Ofcom.
- Significant changes include a new Radio 2 music extension and a scaled-back Radio 5 Sports Extra schedule.
- The BBC aims to offer unique music showcases and increased editorial content.
- The plans reflect industry engagement, aiming to balance public value with market impact.
The BBC has unveiled revised plans for BBC Radio 2 and Radio 5 Sports Extra, aiming to respond to feedback from the audio and music industry. This announcement follows a period of criticism that led Ofcom to demand a public interest test, pushing the BBC to reconsider its initial proposals made earlier in the year.
The Radio 2 extension is at the heart of the revised plans. It promises to deliver a broader range of music from the 1950s to the 1970s, ensuring audiences access at least 6,000 unique tracks annually. There is a commitment to incorporate extensive speech content, ensuring a balance of music and documentaries. The BBC’s use of its unique archive for 20% of programming highlights a rich selection of music and interviews, offering something not readily available elsewhere. The station will work with local BBC radio outlets, bringing regional music stories to a national audience.
BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra’s alterations are substantial, with a 30% reduction in broadcast hours. By focusing the schedule to run from 9 am to 7 pm, the station avoids peak times for commercial stations, thereby attempting to mitigate any negative competitive impact. The station will no longer simulcast Radio 5 Live content outside live sports commentary.
The strategy for these changes reflects the BBC’s intent to cater to underserved audiences, providing greater choice without expanding the sports rights budget. According to Heidi Dawson, these adjustments were made after comprehensive analysis and stakeholder feedback, reducing potential market disruptions.
These strategic adjustments have received the backing of the BBC Board and await further scrutiny by Ofcom, with a review period extending over several months.
The BBC’s revised proposals aim to enhance listener choice while balancing industry concerns and regulatory requirements.
