BBC to boost digital radio presence in UK

The BBC has expressed its commitment in digital radio after it announced that it will be investing in a further 60 digital radio transmitters in the UK.

This latest development means that BBC’s digital radio reach will extend to 90 per cent of the UK population.

Since plans were unveiled about the closure of digital stations, the BBC Asian Network and BBC 6 Music, many questioned the BBC’s stance on its commitment and drive of migrating listeners from analogue to digital radio. Surely, today’s news will be welcomed by the industry and consumers.

Adding more transmitters in the country will further boost the signal quality of digital radio where homes are without reception and also to improve and reinforce reception. Although it’s currently under review as to exactly how many digital radio services operated by the BBC will still be broadcasting by the end of next year.

It is hoped to complete the roll-out by the end of 2011, with the first of the new transmitters coming on-air in the summer.

The plan includes fifteen new transmitters for Scotland, ten new transmitters for Wales, and seven new transmitters for Northern Ireland.

Tim Davie, the BBC’s director of audio and music, said, “The BBC is fully committed to digital radio I’m delighted that we are now in a position to deliver on the BBC Trust’s target to bring digital radio to 90 per cent of the UK.”