BBC Scotland’s flagship news bulletin, The Nine, is set to be replaced under new plans approved by Ofcom. The proposal includes cutting back peak-time news programming and increasing investment in online news.
The decision comes after the BBC announced changes to its news programming, which will see the hour-long Nine replaced with a 30-minute news programme at 19:00 on the same channel. Ofcom ruled that the changes are “appropriate” for the BBC’s public purposes and have the potential to meet the changing needs of audiences in Scotland.
The Nine, which has been broadcasting from BBC Scotland’s Pacific Quay HQ in Glasgow for five years, has faced criticism for low viewing figures in recent years. Despite reaching over 100,000 viewers every week, the average audience has fallen year on year since 2020, prompting the decision to replace the programme.
BBC Scotland director Steve Carson defended the changes, stating that they will “play to our strengths as an innovative broadcaster that delivers high-quality journalism to audiences across all our platforms.” The BBC plans to monitor the impact of the changes and adapt as necessary to meet audience needs.
The Scottish government expressed concerns about the proposed changes, stating that they could leave behind those who need the service the most. However, Ofcom’s report noted that the new 19:00 programme, with a focus on Scottish news stories, aligns more with what audiences have said they want.
In addition to replacing The Nine, BBC Scotland plans to launch a new topical current affairs podcast series, extend the Debate Night programme, and present hour-long special editions of Reporting Scotland. The broadcaster welcomed Ofcom’s decision and will focus on shaping the new offer for audiences in the coming months.
