Digital radio in the United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the roll-out of digital radio has been proceeding since engineering test transmissions were started by the BBC in 1990 followed by a public launch in September 1995. The UK currently has one of the world's biggest digital radio networks, with about 500 transmitters, three national DAB ensembles, one regional DAB ensemble, 48 local DAB ensembles and an increasing number of small-scale DAB ensembles broadcasting over 250 commercial and 34 BBC radio stations across the UK. In London there are already more than 100 different digital stations available. In addition to DAB and DAB+, radio stations are also broadcast on digital television platform as well as internet radio in the UK. Digital radio ensemble operators and stations need a broadcasting licence from the UK's media regulator Ofcom to broadcast.
A typical DAB digital radio receiver with the Digital Radio Development Bureau DAB digital radio marketing logo
A DAB+ transmission of Virgin Radio Anthems on the Sound Digital multiplex in the UK, being received by a compatible radio
Transmitters including Emley Moor (pictured) broadcast digital radio via DAB and digital terrestrial television
BBC Local Radio is the BBC's local and regional radio division for England and the Channel Islands, consisting of forty stations.
A Routemaster double-decker bus, being used as a mobile radio broadcasting facility by BBC Radio London in 2011, under its then current name of BBC London 94.9.
Blue plaque placed by Leeds Civic Society outlining radio in Leeds