Radiocentre welcomes launch of new Digital Radio and Audio Review

The announcement today (12th February 2026) that the government is launching a new joint industry and government Digital Radio and Audio Review to help secure the future of UK radio and audio has been welcomed by Radiocentre.

The review was announced by Media Minister Ian Murray and comes five years after a previous review of the industry and at a pivotal time for the rapidly evolving radio and audio landscape.

Radiocentre will work closely with DCMS, the BBC and key industry stakeholders to carry out the review, which is expected to complete by the end of 2026. The Review’s Terms of Reference are to:

(a) Investigate future scenarios for the consumption of UK radio and audio content on all platforms into the 2030s, taking into account likely models of future listener behaviour, market trends, and technical developments.

(b) Consider the impact of these scenarios on current and future distribution strategies for the UK radio industry and on the future availability of UK radio services for listeners on all platforms.

(c) Make recommendations – based as far as possible on a cross-industry consensus – on the future distribution of radio services and provide advice to Government on ways of strengthening the long-term viability of UK radio until the early 2040s.

Radiocentre’s CEO Matt Payton said:

“Radio remains extremely popular, yet listening habits continue to change driven by new technology and innovation. Whether audiences are listening on smart speakers, a radio set or in a connected car, it’s vital to ensure that distribution and access to radio is secure for the future. We look forward to working together with government and industry to address this challenge.”

For any questions about the Digital Radio and Audio Review, please contact Radiocentre’s Head of Policy, Will Thomson at will.thomson@radiocentre.org.