Radio stations could all be digital by 2020

Despite various setbacks – such as Channel 4's decision to ditch its plans for digital radio as we reported here – the DRWG is expected to say that most radio content will be digital by 2020.

This is despite the belief that some parts of the country may well still be unable to receive a DAB signal even by 2020. As a result, a blanket analogue switch-off date like the 2012 deadline set for terrestrial television is unlikely.

DRWG had originally said that the digital switchover should be completed between 2015 and 2020.

Other issues expected to be tackled include sorting who will pay for required upgrades to the DAB signal, how to encourage car manufacturers to fit more in-car digital radios and the reorganising of the existing DAB station multiplexes.