The 34 local TV stations broadcast on the UK terrestrial network will remain in air for another 10 years, subject to a review of each station’s future plans.
Media Minister John Whittingdale said the communications regulator Ofcom will conduct the review that will ensure the stations are meeting the needs of local audiences. “Local TV stations from Belfast to Birmingham help to support local journalism, drive the creative economy and foster pride in communities,” he said.
Launched in 2013, local TV services are accessible to 15 million people (normally occupying channel 7 or 8 on Freeview) and are required to show several hours of local programming each day.
Since their launch stations have often been granted permission by Ofcom to change their output. In November 2021, Ofcom agreed to a request by That’s TV to consolidate the production bases for some of its 20 local TV stations.
However, some stations, including Notts TV in Nottingham and KMTV in Kent, run journalism training courses.
Should any of the current providers choose not to renew their licence, or Ofcom decides not to approve a renewal, Ofcom will move to a competitive relicensing process.
