Broadcast 2040+ - The future of Terrestrial TV

In 2022, five organisations came together to launch the Broadcast 2040+ campaign over a shared concern: there was no Government commitment to keeping broadcast TV and radio available beyond 2034. The campaign’s message is simple: millions of people enjoy and rely on broadcast services every day, and they need to be safeguarded into the 2040s and beyond.

Why does this matter? Terrestrial TV - ‘free-to-air’ TV - which doesn’t require an internet connection delivers trusted, high-quality content like public service broadcasting and regional news to homes across the UK, no matter where you live or how strong your broadband is. For many, it’s a lifeline – especially areas with patchy internet, or those who can’t afford high-speed broadband or costly streaming services. That includes older people, low-income families, people living with disabilities, and others in vulnerable situations, with rural areas and devolved nations often disproportionately represented among these groups. Terrestrial television and DAB radio signals also support other essential services from utilities to emergency communications.

Since the campaign launched, support has grown. Today, the Broadcast 2040+ campaign has 37 partners, from a wide range of groups including the Rural Services Network, the Digital Poverty Alliance, Silver Voices, Age UK, and many others. The licenses that keep terrestrial TV running expire in the early 2030s, and so far, there’s no guarantee they’ll be renewed. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport is running the ‘Future of TV Distribution’ forum to decide what happens next for terrestrial TV and several partners are actively involved and feeding into this process.

To further bring this issue to the fore as we approach a forum decision, the Rt Hon. David Mundell MP has secured a Westminster Hall debate on 'The Future of Terrestrial TV' on 4th September. The debate follows on from a successful breakfast event in Westminster earlier this year to mark the launch of the Digital Poverty Alliance's report, 'Safeguarding Britain’s Social Resilience: The Critical Role of Terrestrial Television'. The report found 90% believe terrestrial TV is pivotal for ensuring people who can’t afford more expensive TV subscriptions can access information and entertainment.

Streaming might be growing in popularity, but it’s not replacing broadcast. Relying solely on internet-based services isn’t realistic for everyone and broadband take-up is influenced by factors like digital inclusion and affordability – especially during a cost-of-living crisis when people are cutting back on expenses.

Our current system – a mix of free-to-air broadcast and internet streaming – gives us the best of both worlds. It’s inclusive and works for a range of needs while offering choice to those who can afford it.

69% of citizens are unaware the future of terrestrial TV is under consideration. It’s now more important than ever to increase awareness among your members and encourage them to raise the issue so decisions aren’t made without their input.

If your organisation is interested in joining the campaign, or your members wish to raise the issue with their local MP - reach out for help at [email protected]