Liberal Democrats hit out at BBC local radio cuts

York’s Liberal Democrat councillors have hit out at plans which, in the latest blow to local journalism, would see BBC local radio stations left with just a handful of programmes specific to our communities.

Under the new plans local BBC radio shows will only survive on weekday mornings and lunchtimes (6am till 2pm) with the afternoon set to be shared either regionally or nationally. A possible 139 jobs in local radio will be at risk as a result of the changes.

This follows job cuts in 2020, when BBC Radio York lost a number of well-known presenters with just three daytime programmes kept on as ‘simplified schedules’. The same year also saw our local Minster FM radio station culled and merged into the national Hits Radio Network.

York’s Liberal Democrats are calling on the BBC and the Secretary of State to recognise the impact this cost-cutting plans will have on the local communities, as well as the future of local and regional journalism.

Councillor Darryl Smalley and Council Leader Councillor Aspden have written to the BBC’s Director of Nations and Regions and the Acting director of BBC England to urge them to reverse these devastating plans.

Residents are urged to sign a petition against the cuts to BBC Radio York: https://digitallibdems.typeform.com/radioyork

Councillor Keith Aspden, Liberal Democrat leader of the Council, said: “Local and regional media outlets have been impacted by major cuts over the last few years. In 2020, BBC Radio York lost a number of well-known presenters with just three daytime programmes kept on as ‘simplified schedules’. This also coincided with another well-loved local radio station, Minster FM, being culled and merged into national Hits Radio Network.

“Local media play a vital role in supporting communities up and down the country. In York, BBC radio and regional news programmes are not only trusted and valued local institutions but crucially give a voice to local communities at a time when local voices are squeezed out.

“We are urging the BBC to reverse these plans, which as currently set out would irreversibly damage regional and local journalism as well as local representation, diversity and accessibility of trusted news services.”

Councillor Darryl Smalley, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Communities at City of York Council, commented: “Make no mistake, these cuts are set to further dismantle York’s voice. The power of BBC York is huge when it comes to connecting local communities, and amid the noise it is a trusted source of information when it matters most, in times of flood and other emergencies.

“These cost-cutting proposals endanger a cornerstone of our public debate and local democracy – trusted and credible local media.

“This is the moment for York to stand up and say enough is enough. Our local BBC radio station will not be salami-sliced into irrelevance. Please do take a second to sign the petition, which will be used to lobby the BBC to save our radio station.”