STV is set to axe its flagship north of Scotland news show and cut 60 jobs in a significant overhaul of its broadcasting operations, as the station seeks to save approximately £3 million by next year following a reported pre-tax loss of £200,000 in the first half of 2025.
Divisional managing director Bobby Hain clarified the broadcaster does not require Ofcom’s approval to transfer studio production and presentation to Glasgow, referencing similar moves elsewhere in the Channel 3 network where regional news programmes are pre-recorded.
The cost-cutting measures follow a period of financial strain and align with wider market shifts and long-term trends in television viewing habits. Chief Executive Rufus Radcliffe emphasised the challenge for colleagues but stated that the changes are a necessary response to market conditions.
He rejected claims that the restructuring was a panicked response to recent financial setbacks, noting that STV aims to preserve local newsgathering and specialist reporting online and in future programming.
The proposals have been met with criticism and concern from MPs and industry insiders, who warn of diminished regional coverage and reduced capacity to report on late-breaking stories from the Highlands, Tayside, and the North East.
Staff and union representatives have flagged the risk of “hollowing out” regional journalism, while political figures from across Scotland have voiced their opposition to the plan. The restructuring will particularly affect audiences outside of the central belt, with only a single 6pm national programme set to remain, produced from Glasgow.
STV has promised to meet unions to discuss the impact on staff and continues to consult as the changes progress. The broadcaster insists newsgathering will continue from existing locations, with a focus on expanding digital output to meet evolving viewer behaviour.
The changes, now confirmed as not requiring external approval, will begin following consultation and final planning, and viewers in northern Scotland are bracing for a significant reduction in local news coverage.
