Radiocentre sets out actions to safeguard audio’s public service future

Radiocentre has outlined priorities for audio as part of the debate on public service media, in what will be a pivotal year for the sector.

In a speech delivered today (21st January) at a Westminster Media Forum event, Radiocentre CEO Matt Payton urged Government to ensure that UK audio remains central to discussions about the future of public service media. He highlighted the commercial radio industry’s significant public value, providing companionship, trusted news and supporting economic growth, before setting out key policy and regulatory priorities for the year ahead.

Matt stressed that swift and full implementation of the Media Act is essential. Just as it strengthens TV prominence, it introduces new protections to safeguard access to radio on voice platforms such as Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri. It is hoped that the new framework will be in place by the end of the year.

He also highlighted the importance of a new DCMS Digital Radio & Audio Review. This would examine listening trends, regulation and distribution (including in vehicles) and identify the steps needed to support a healthy, vibrant audio sector for the long term, which could help address new challenges that are emerging in the ever-changing media landscape. One such challenge raised by Matt is the future of broadcast distribution. He warned of the unintended consequences of policy decisions focused solely on TV without considering the importance of audio. He pointed out that:

“If the TV industry moves ahead with switching off DTT or Freeview in 2034, broadcast radio could be left as the main paying customer on many of the UK’s shared transmission masts, with major cost implications.”

Commenting on the BBC Charter Review Green Paper published on 16th December, Matt also reiterated Radiocentre’s position that an ad-funded BBC should be ruled out. Citing economic modelling research by Compass Lexecon he warned that introducing advertising on BBC radio services:

“…would make most BBC radio services unviable and fatally weaken the rest – as well as undermine commercial radio; reduce listener choice; and deliver a negative economic impact. This would be disastrous and it would not be the BBC as we know it.”

Matt concluded that commercial radio’s priorities for 2026 are:

• Full Media Act implementation to secure access to radio
• A new DCMS Digital Radio & Audio Review to ensure the right framework for the future
• A BBC Charter Review that is sensitive to market impact
• And a future where audio is recognised fully as part of the public service media landscape