Park Authority objects to STV cuts proposal
Park Authority objects to STV cuts proposal
The Convener of the Cairngorms National Park Authority has written to Ofcom to object to STV’s plans to end its north of Scotland television news programmes.
The television station announced significant cuts last week, including a proposal to axe its Aberdeen-based news programme which covers the north of the country, including the whole of the National Park.
STV is submitting the plans to communications regulator Ofcom on changes to its public service broadcast obligations.
In his letter to Ofcom today, Sandy Bremner says the Park Authority board views STV's decision "as wholly damaging to the interests of rural Scotland".
He writes: "At a time of growing threats from wildfires, floods, droughts, biodiversity loss, and social challenges including an affordable housing crisis, effective scrutiny of the issues in our countryside has never been more important.
"For decades, STV and its predecessor Grampian TV provided dedicated coverage of questions critical to the welfare of the north of Scotland, affecting lives and livelihoods.
"Their programmes reflected and helped nourish the distinctive culture of this area. Their news output remains the only dedicated linear TV service for this region."
The Convener raises concerns that the proposal for a single national programme from Glasgow "will inevitably squeeze this rural agenda", adding: "STV’s television news programmes remain a valued source of information for large numbers of viewers in this area, and a critical platform fuelling public debate."
Alert
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Relevant alerts
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There is an ongoing wildfire situation at Glenmore within the Cairngorms National Park. Click here for all the latest. We would encourage members of the public to follow current guidance and be aware that the situation may change.
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Very high fire risk - 15 to 24 July
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has issued a very high wildfire warning impacting areas of the National Park on Wednesday 15 until Friday 24 July. If you are out and about in the Cairngorms National Park please observe the following guidance:
- Do not light any fire or barbecue, in line with the new fire byelaw
- Always ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished and take your litter (including glass) away with you
- Enjoy the outdoors responsibly - most wildfires are caused by human activity
- Stay alert - with dry vegetation and warm weather, fires can start easily, spread rapidly, and burn intensely
- If you see a wildfire, dial 999
For further updates on wildfire risk across Scotland, visit the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service website. To find out more about the fire byelaw, and to see your questions answered, visit our fire byelaw page here.
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SEPA have confirmed the presence of blue-green algae/cyanobacteria in Loch Morlich.
It is advised not to enter or drink the water anywhere in Loch Morlich, or allow your pets to do so, until further notice. Contact with affected water can be harmful to people and animals.
Please:
- Avoid swimming, paddling, or entering the water.
- Keep dogs and other pets away from the loch and shoreline.
- Do not drink or use the water.
If you or your pet feel unwell after contact with the water, seek medical or veterinary advice immediately. Please follow all posted warning signs and guidance from local authorities.