The BBC has announced plans to introduce new radio extensions, available on DAB+ and BBC Sounds, to offer a more in-depth exploration of specific music genres and periods. This move is designed to provide increased choices, especially for audiences currently underserved by the BBC. The expansion marks the BBC’s first addition to its radio portfolio since 2002, when Radio 6 Music, Radio 1Xtra, and Asian Network were launched.
The proposed Radio 1 extension will focus on music and artists from the 2000s and 2010s, along with an expanded version of the existing BBC Sounds Radio 1 Dance stream.
The new Radio 2 extension aims to offer a distinctive perspective on pop nostalgia, curating the pop music story from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s with insights from individuals who shaped the cultural landscape, leveraging unique access to the BBC’s archive.
For Radio 3, the extension plans to assist listeners in unwinding, destressing, and escaping the pressures of daily life through carefully curated content. These proposals are subject to regulatory approvals.
Additionally, the BBC will conduct a separate Public Interest Test for BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, which, if approved, will feature existing BBC sports-related audio content, including BBC Sounds podcasts and regional programming, when there are no live sports broadcasts.
Lorna Clarke, Director of BBC Music, emphasized the desire to provide audiences with more choices aligned with changing listening habits and to offer a unique and enriching experience through the extended radio offerings.
