BBC ends long wave radio service after 92 years

The BBC has permanently ended its long wave radio service, concluding nearly a century of broadcasting on the platform. The final transmission from BBC Radio 4 on long wave aired at 1 a.m. on Saturday, June 27, 2026, marking the closure of the United Kingdom's last remaining long wave station.

The service, which began in 1934, played a significant role in national communication, including during the Second World War. Radio 4 moved to the long wave frequency in 1978, where it remained for almost five decades, becoming the home of programs like "The Archers," "Desert Island Discs," and the Shipping Forecast. The BBC first announced plans to retire the aging technology in 2022 and ended separate long wave scheduling in 2024.

The corporation stated that maintaining the long wave network is no longer sustainable, as the technology has reached the end of its operational lifespan. Replacing and maintaining the equipment would require substantial investment for a platform now used by a relatively small proportion of listeners. The BBC said it is instead prioritizing services that reflect modern listening habits, with audiences increasingly tuning in via FM, DAB, and digital platforms....