[Keith]

On the one hand the BBC is announcing four new DAB+ stations for Radio 1, 2, and 3. On the other hand the BBC has been making heavy cuts to BBC (England) local radio.

I can't imagine that those working in BBC local radio will be too impressed by this announcement. If the BBC has got the money maybe it should be spent on its local radio to restore some lost services, rather than launching new stations. I see that Radiocentre's statement has also noted this.

I sense that the extension for Radio 3 is probably the least controversial. Similarly, I doubt the proposals for 5 Sport extra are likely to raise many objections within the commercial sector, assuming it meets the "public interest test".