Year: 2025

The BBC has asked Ofcom to remove the requirement to report how many hours of live commentary are provided for each sport on BBC Radio 5 Live.

The proposal would not change the BBC’s obligation to cover at least 20 different sports every year and to publish which ones are included. That condition will remain in place to ensure transparency and maintain the station’s distinctive coverage.
The BBC says that reporting the number of commentary hours for each sport creates unnecessary administrative work and offers little additional value, as most of this information is already available through published schedules.
Ofcom agrees the data adds limited benefit and has confirmed it is minded to accept the request.
If approved, the change would reduce the amount of detailed reporting required by the BBC while keeping existing commitments to a broad and varied sports offer on Radio 5 Live.

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The BBC wants to change the hours that count towards its quota for locally made programming on BBC Local Radio.

It has asked Ofcom to allow only shared programmes broadcast outside 6am to 2pm on weekdays to count towards its annual target of 4,954 hours of original, locally made content.
The change would allow BBC Local Radio stations to focus resources on producing more local programmes during higher listening hours, especially weekday mornings, rather than maintaining local production at times of lower audience levels.
The proposal would not affect the BBC’s commitment to provide local news bulletins, which will continue to air throughout the day.
Ofcom says the request would help bring more locally made programming to larger audiences while giving the BBC flexibility in lower-listening periods. The regulator has said it is minded to approve the change.
The plan forms part of ongoing adjustments to BBC Local Radio schedules, where stations already share some programmes in the afternoons and evenings but continue to offer local news and travel updates throughout the day.

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BBC Asian Network is introducing a new speech and current affairs programme as part of its updated schedule from Monday 27 October.

The new show, Asian Network Trending, will air every Wednesday from 8pm to 10pm, offering a two-hour deep dive into the week’s most talked-about topics and issues affecting British Asians.
The first hour will cover the biggest trending stories of the week, while the second will focus on a specific subject with guests joining to add insight and context.
The show will rotate presenters, beginning with broadcaster, DJ and producer Amber Haque, known for her work with BBC Three, Channel 4 and BBC Sounds.
In other schedule changes, Asian Network’s New Music Show with DJ Limelight moves to Monday evenings from 8pm to 10pm, followed by Asian Network Motivation from 10pm to 11pm. One More Chai will move to Tuesday nights at 10pm.
Head of Asian Network Ahmed Hussain said the new show was designed to give space for thoughtful and relevant conversation. “It’s a bold new space for speech, discussion and current affairs that reflects the voices, concerns and passions of British Asians today,” he said.
“It’s a unique platform where trending topics meet cultural nuance, and where our presenters and guests can explore issues with real depth, honesty and flair.”

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Coast FM has launched an urgent public appeal to safeguard community radio in West Cornwall.
The not-for-profit station, run entirely by volunteers since 2014, is seeking donations to help cover rising operational costs and essential equipment upgrades. Without support, the team warns that the station could face closure.
Chairman Alan Shepherd said: “Right now, we’re struggling. We operate in a harsh commercial world, and the cruel economy is hitting us hard. Without urgent support, we could go off air.”
Operating under the Penwith Community Radio Station banner, Coast FM provides local news, entertainment, and training opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds. The campaign aims to fund vital areas such as licences, rent, electricity, and transmitter maintenance to ensure the station’s continued service.
Director and Volunteer Manager Dave Pascoe said: “Community radio is vital for connection, advice, and entertainment. We’re proud of our track record in helping people develop careers in radio and audio. This campaign is key to protecting that legacy.”

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