I’ve written about Global’s decision to axe all of its local radio programming, and centralise production to London.
The landscape of local radio in the UK is undergoing significant change as media giants like Global consolidate operations, centralising programming and replacing locally produced content with national shows. This shift, enabled by recent legislative changes under the Media Act 2024, raises important questions about the future of local media and its role in reflecting the diverse voices and identities of communities across the country.
Local radio has long been a vital part of the UK’s cultural and social fabric, offering a platform for regional stories, voices, and concerns that are often overlooked by larger media outlets. By centralising production in London, the unique character and cultural relevance that local stations once provided are at risk of being lost. Communities that rely on these stations to stay informed and connected may find themselves increasingly disconnected from the media that serves them.
The reasons behind this consolidation are rooted in economic efficiency and the pursuit of larger audiences for advertisers. Centralising production allows broadcasters to reduce costs and streamline operations, creating high-profile national shows designed to appeal to broader markets. However, these changes come with trade-offs, including a loss of local representation, fewer opportunities for new talent outside London, and a diminished sense of community engagement.
The Media Act 2024 played a critical role in enabling these changes by removing requirements for locally produced content and relaxing regulatory oversight. Critics argue that this deregulation prioritises commercial interests over public service obligations, allowing large media corporations to dominate the airwaves while sidelining the needs and voices of citizens. The result is a media landscape that favours efficiency and profitability at the expense of cultural diversity and accessibility.
As these changes unfold, questions arise about where the challenge to this trend should come from. Who will advocate for a media environment that values plurality and local identity? Should the pushback come from civil society groups, local government bodies, or independent broadcasters? What role should policymakers and regulators play in ensuring that the media serves the interests of all citizens, not just those of the largest players in the industry?
There is a pressing need to reimagine the media landscape to better support local and independent voices. This could involve revisiting spectrum management regulations to enable more services on FM and AM frequencies, encouraging innovation through on-demand licensing systems, or fostering new entrants into the market. Policymakers and regulators have a responsibility to open up the conversation and develop frameworks that balance the needs of commercial broadcasters with the public interest.
The debate extends beyond the mechanics of broadcasting to fundamental issues of social and cultural democracy. Local media is not just a source of information, but a platform for communities to see themselves represented and heard. The centralisation of media production risks eroding this vital function, leaving communities feeling invisible in the narratives that shape the nation.
For those concerned about these changes, the challenge is clear: action must be taken to advocate for a more inclusive and diverse media landscape. This requires moving beyond fatalism and engaging actively with community media groups, campaigning organisations, and other stakeholders. It means working collaboratively to develop practical, sustainable solutions that address the challenges posed by the concentration of media provision.
The future of local media is not predetermined, but it will require effort and commitment to shape it in a way that reflects the needs and aspirations of all communities. The question is, who will rise to this challenge, and what steps can be taken to ensure that local voices remain a vital part of the UK’s media ecosystem?