Move will dramatically reduce content made for specific stations and see focus switched to local programming from 6am to 2pm
The BBC has confirmed that it will cut 48 jobs as part of an overhaul of local radio that will dramatically reduce content made exclusively for specific stations.
The plans, first reported on Sunday by the Guardian, are part of the BBC’s new strategy to focus on online content as part of a move towards a “modern, digital-led” broadcaster.
The BBC said all 39 local radio stations will continue with their own dedicated local programming from 6am to 2pm on weekdays. After 2pm the BBC will produce 18 afternoon programmes across England that will be shared between stations.
A total of 10 local programmes will then be shared across England between 6-10pm on weekdays, across the day on Saturday and on Sunday mornings, serving areas broadly mirroring the existing local TV areas.
