BBC to shut BBC Three, BBC Scotland and Radio 4 Extra in 2027
The closures are part of a plan to save £500 million ($666 million), and the BBC also announced 100 layoffs in its news division.
The BBC has confirmed that it will close BBC Three, BBC Scotland and Radio 4 Extra as linear networks in spring 2027, part of plans to save £500 million ($666 million). BBC director-general Matt Brittin set out the changes in a memo to staff, according to Deadline.
BBC Three will remain a brand on iPlayer, and BBC Scotland will also be retained on iPlayer. The broadcaster said it would increase investment for younger audiences.
The BBC also announced 100 layoffs in its news division, which it said would save £5.5 million.
BBC Three was originally moved online in 2016. Former director-general Tim Davie reversed that decision, and the channel returned to television in 2022. Deadline first reported last month that BBC Three was in serious jeopardy, and earlier this month that Radio 4 Extra was at risk.
The £500 million target expands on a previous savings goal worth £1.5 billion. The BBC has recently cancelled Radio 4's You and Yours, axed sports bulletins, made 110 layoffs in BBC Media Tech and cancelled RuPaul's Drag Race UK.
Quick answers
When will BBC Three close as a linear channel?
The BBC confirmed it will close BBC Three as a linear TV channel in spring 2027.
Will BBC Three still be available after the closure?
Yes. BBC Three will remain a brand on iPlayer, and BBC Scotland will also be retained on iPlayer.
How much does the BBC plan to save?
The closures are part of plans to save £500 million ($666 million). The BBC also announced 100 layoffs in its news division, saving £5.5 million.