BBC investigates central hub for all UK radio stations

The BBC is investigating creating a central online platform for all UK radio stations, according to reports.

The proposal, which would need approval from the BBC Trust, would give radio listeners access to stations such as Magic and Absolute Radio from a single hub.

Tim Davie, the BBC's head of audio and music, implied the service would be similar to the BBC's iPlayer, which offers a radio catch-up service of shows such as The Chris Moyles Show and The Archers.

"Why shouldn't we be able to live pause, put it on a hard drive, grab stuff from the past seven days and pre-book on radio as well as TV," Davie told the Guardian.

Davie said the service could be launched within the year.

The Radio Centre, the trade body for commercial radio stations, has been involved in the BBC proposal, according to reports.

It comes after the BBC Trust last week approved a £30.7m increase in the BBC Online budget over the next three years (nma.co.uk 20 March).

Published by: Suzanne Bearne

Published 23rd March, 2009

Add comment