British government allows digital license extension

Digital radio in Britain has received a significant confidence boost. The British government has permitted the country’s communications regulator Ofcom to renew two national commercial radio multiplex licenses — Digital One Ltd Multiplex and Sound Digital Ltd Multiplex, due to expire in 2023 and 2028, respectively — until December 2035.

The move means audiences across the United Kingdom will enjoy uninterrupted access to the vast range of radio content available from the country’s national commercial broadcasters through their digital devices on a free-to-air basis.

“Radio’s distinctive and much-loved format means it continues to be at the heart of people’s lives,” said Julia Lopez, Britain’s Minister for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. “We are confirming plans to extend radio multiplex licenses until 2035, so our hugely popular stations can continue to reach audiences through digital radio networks, and we can give broadcasters the certainty they need to invest in their future services.”

According to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, radio remains extremely popular in the U.K. — almost 9 in 10 adults listen to their favorite stations every week, and most of those listen on digital devices.