Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor Majid Hussain, who shares this update from the BBC:
BBC Local Radio Medium Wave transmission changes
BBC Local Radio Medium Wave transmission services in Cumbria, Derby, Gloucestershire, Norfolk and Somerset will close by the end of November 2026. This is the final phase of a switch off process which was announced in 2011 with phased closures in 2018 and 2020.
This means if you currently listen on MW radio, you will need to switch to another way of listening. The good news is that your local BBC radio station, programmes and schedules are not changing.
You can continue listening to the same local BBC radio service through:
-
- FM radio
- DAB Digital Radio
- BBC Sounds
- Online via the BBC website
- Smart speakers
This change reflects how listening habits have changed over time, with more audiences choosing FM, DAB and digital services. Whichever platform you choose, you’ll continue to receive the same local BBC radio programmes and content.
Click here to read the full article, including alternative sources for these transmissions.
Though converesly they are removing a source of AM DX opportunity for DXers that are distant from the UK. The frequencies (to try hear them whilst still possible!) being Cumbria (756, 837 kHz ), Norfolk (873), Derby (1116) , Gloucestershire (1413), Somerset (1566)
I hope that they are promoting the use of DAB+ for primary reception so that FM can be switched off.
Then the EWS and Journaline can produce images and text as well/
The only good thing I can say about this is that it opens up more opportunities to go DXing on the MW band.