Local radio changes expected imminently as key parts of new Media Act take effect

Large sections of the Media Act 2024 relating to regulation of commercial radio in the UK have now become law, paving the way for operators to make changes to their output.

The Media Act received Royal Assent on 24th May this year – making it through Parliament and into law as part of the ‘wash-up’ period before the general election.

Some sections of the Act became law immediately, while others are only now taking effect. This includes Part 5 of the act, concerning regulation of commercial radio, which came into force last Thursday (17th October).

The regulator will now consult with stakeholders on changes to the rules around the broadcast of local news and information on certain radio licences, as well as considering how to implement changes which will see all DAB multiplex operators required to publish information about costs, in the same way that small-scale multiplex operators have to.

RadioToday understands, however, that sections of the Act relating to the requirements for locally-made programming – and seeking permission for changes to music formats – take effect immediately.

This means groups including Global and Bauer could now drop regional programmes from brands such as Capital, Heart, Hits Radio and Greatest Hits Radio.

Similarly, national and local commercial radio multiplex operators will now be able to make changes to the station line-ups without seeking Ofcom permission in advance.

In an update on Thursday, Ofcom said: “The Secretary of State of Culture, Media and Sport has made commencement regulations which bring Part 5 of the Media Act 2024 into force, as well as a section of Part 1 to allow for our preparatory work on Public Service Broadcasting reform.

“Commencement of Part 5 allows us to continue our plans for implementation, including:

• Consulting on new local news and information requirements for analogue commercial radio stations, while retaining current requirements in the meantime.
• Removing requirements from analogue licences relating to music and locally-made programming.
• Consulting on new requirements on DAB multiplex providers to publish information about payments radio stations make for carriage.
• Ending the need for DAB multiplex providers to ask Ofcom for permission to add or remove digital radio stations.”