Independent and community media need a clearer way to contribute to the Government’s 2026 Radio Review, Better Media says.
The organisation has written to Lisa Nandy MP, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, after attending a briefing about the work taking place.
It said the session was informative, but did not provide a clear process for submitting evidence, challenging assumptions or understanding how contributions would influence the final report.
DCMS told Better Media in March that it would welcome representations, add the organisation to its stakeholder list and provide details of opportunities to participate. Better Media contacted the department again in June after receiving no invitation or timetable.
Dr Rob Watson, Policy Director at Better Media, said: “This is like foxes designing the new chicken coop.”
Rob said the Government should focus on growth driven by innovation and a diversity of suppliers, rather than further consolidation and spectrum banking.
Better Media wants the Review to consider who can enter the radio market and how unused or underused spectrum could be made available to new providers.
It also wants the Government to examine whether the growing number of radio stations has resulted in more diverse ownership, programming and listener choice.
The organisation has asked DCMS to confirm whether further stakeholder sessions or opportunities to submit written evidence will be available before the Review concludes.
The Government’s terms of reference say the Review will consider future listening and distribution before recommending ways to strengthen the long term viability of UK radio. Its report is expected in autumn 2026.
