The BBC has revealed plans to launch four new digital radio stations, the first such launch since 2002’s 6Music, 1Xtra and the Asian Network. The stations will be available via DAB+ and BBC Sounds, and aim to provide listeners “more choice and value from the licence fee”. The unnamed stations will feature context, curation, and storytelling, and “delve deeper into specific genres and periods of music, only the BBC can do” according to BBC management.
One of the new stations will be a Radio 1 spin-off playing music from the 2000s and 2010s curated with “lesser-heard gems” from major artists. The radio station will also help to develop new talent on and off-air. The other spin-off, Radio 2, will focus on the 50s, 60s and 70s rock and pop eras. It will feature a “distinctive take on pop nostalgia” and new stories on key influencers of the time, as well as current Radio 2 presenters. Radio 3 is set for a new station dedicated to classical music, featuring a playlist for those who want to unwind, pause or escape the rigours of daily life. The new station would play newer compositions in addition to classics and promote living composers. It will support BBC Proms content, content from the BBC orchestras, choirs, and Introducing acts. Finally, the BBC will launch an expanded version of its existing Radio 1 Dance channel on DAB+ and BBC Sounds for young talent programmers.
The move has not been well received by the commercial radio sector with representations from Radio Centre requesting Ofcom to reject the plans, saying the commercial radio market is already well served “with more choice than ever”, including genre and decade-specific stations from Absolute, Smooth, Virgin and Heart. Boom Radio co-founder Phil Riley also commented, it remains to be seen if the BBC will pass Ofcom’s competition assessment test to ensure this new launch adds value and does not have an adverse impact on competitors or the market. A public consultation will be held, including a Public Interest Test (PIT), in the coming weeks and Ofcom will review whether the new channels comply with existing regulations. Lorna Clarke, Director of BBC Music, highlights the move is an attempt to keep UK listeners engaged with music, particularly given how listening habits are changing.
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