The BBC Breakfast Show move to to Salford along with Blue Peter and Radio 5 Live prove harder to implement and cost more than the bean counters at the BBC had intended. An extract from their news website below:


It is a strategy mired in controversy, with staff being offered four- and five-figure relocation packages - including £3,000 towards redecorating their new homes in the north-west - but the public broadcaster insists that it will help make the corporation less London-centric. Some fear the show will miss out on big interviews because politicians and celebrities will not want to travel to Greater Manchester

It's absolutely witless. They'll move there and then have to keep cutting to a London studio to talk to guests. I understand the pressure to use the regions more effectively, but news and current affairs is the last department that suits a move from London. I despair.

Totally Agree Punella. Didn't they learn that when Richard & Judy moved "This Morning" from Liverpool Docks to London 10 or so years ago. Drama, Game Shows, Soaps etc all lend themselves to being filmed in cheaper locations, but news, current affairs and chat shows have to take place where the people are located if you are to get the best choice of participant. Go on regional tours, yes, but never base yourself so far from London.