BBC welcomes Ofcom decision on new 6 Music stream launch

A proposed new 6 Music extension has been given the go-ahead following Ofcom’s decision that it will not have a significant impact on competition.

The BBC has welcomed the decision, which now clears the way for the stream to launch on BBC Sounds later this year.

The regulator has agreed with the BBC’s own assessment that the additional music stream does not constitute a material change to its public service activities, meaning the Corporation will not need to go through further regulatory approval before introducing it to audiences.

The new stream will be available exclusively on BBC Sounds and will focus on indie rock and pop from the 1980s through to the 2010s, with a particular aim of attracting younger listeners who are currently less well served by the existing 6 Music output.

Ofcom said it had reviewed the BBC’s assessment in detail, alongside further evidence from industry stakeholders, and considered the wider audio market, including the continued growth of global streaming platforms and the presence of multiple commercial stations already operating in a similar space.

The regulator concluded that the planned service would be unlikely to have a significant adverse impact on fair and effective competition, noting both its digital-only distribution and the strength of existing commercial operators with broad portfolios.

Responding to the decision, a BBC spokesperson said the organisation welcomed Ofcom’s agreement and was looking forward to bringing the new offer to listeners this summer.

They added: “We welcome Ofcom’s agreement with our assessment that the new 6 Music extension, available exclusively on BBC Sounds, will not have a significant, adverse impact on fair and effective competition.”

The spokesperson said the new stream would provide a distinctive way to explore indie music and reflect the BBC’s wider commitment to delivering value for audiences.

“We look forward to bringing this unique stream, which will tell the story of indie music in a way only the BBC can, to listeners this summer, continuing our commitment to offer audiences even more choice and value from the licence fee,” they said.