Ofcom sets out local radio content rules

by Tristan O'Carroll Media Week 07-Feb-08, 12:50

LONDON - Ofcom has today introduced new rules requiring FM radio stations to air minimum levels of locally made content.

The new guidelines, effective immediately, mark an increase on its original plans to introduce radio content regulations.

All FM local radio stations must now broadcast a minimum of 10 hours local content.

Ofcom had previously proposed a three-tiered quota system running from four hours a day for the smallest-sized stations, up to eight hours and 13 hours for the next sizes up.

Meanwhile, AM stations must air at least four hours of locally made programming each day of the week.

Additionally, AM stations based in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are required to air a further six weekday hours of programming from their home nation.

The regulator also announced plans to consider requests from smaller stations, with a population coverage of under 250,000 adults, to co-locate in order to reduce the content burden.