A new study warns that switching off Digital Terrestrial Television in 2034 could increase radio transmission costs by over 50%.
Research by Frontier Economics, commissioned by Radiocentre, shows that many radio broadcasters share transmission sites with TV.
If TV broadcasters stop using these sites, radio would face much higher costs, which could threaten the viability of some commercial stations.
Radiocentre has raised these concerns in its response to a Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport consultation on the future of DTT.
The government is considering two possible timelines for a transition to internet-only TV services: 2034 and 2044.
Radiocentre highlights the risks to local coverage, listener choice, and media plurality, especially in rural areas, if the extra costs are not addressed. It also points to the public value of commercial radio and the potential consequences for both broadcasters and listeners.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham told parliament he was concerned about the DTT switch-off plans and wanted to review the proposals.
Matt Payton, Radiocentre CEO, said the government must consider the evidence carefully and warned that without a suitable cost mitigation package, ministers should consider delaying the move.
