Broadcasting in Jersey
The landscape of media in Jersey is defined by a blend of local production and wider UK network integration. Central to this infrastructure is the Frémont Point transmitting station, a key facility located in Frémont, Saint John, which facilitates the transmission of both FM radio and television signals across the island.
Television Services
Terrestrial television in Jersey is primarily served by two major providers: ITV Channel Television and BBC Channel Islands. Both organizations maintain a local presence with their own broadcast studios, production teams, and presenters to ensure regional relevance.
ITV Channel Television
As the longer-serving of the two primary services, ITV Channel Television focuses heavily on regional programming. Its cornerstone is the nightly news program, ITV News Channel TV, which is supported by shorter news bulletins airing seven days a week. The station has a history of diverse local content, including the children's series Puffin's Pla(i)ce, the sports magazine show Report Sport, and various local documentaries.
BBC Channel Islands
BBC Channel Islands operates as an opt-out service from BBC South West, meaning it replaces regional mainland content with local news. These broadcasts originate from the BBC Radio Jersey studios in St Helier. Local news airs on BBC One each weeknight at 6:30 pm (during the first half of Spotlight) and again at 10:25 pm following the BBC News at Ten.
Beyond these local services, residents have access to most of the same off-island stations available in the United Kingdom. Additionally, the island's unique character has been highlighted in popular media, such as the detective program Bergerac.
Radio Broadcasting
Jersey offers a variety of radio options across FM, Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB), and internet-based platforms.
FM and DAB Services
Local FM broadcasting is led by BBC Radio Jersey, Soleil Radio, and Channel 103. To modernize access, these stations have been available on the Channel Island DAB mux (a multiplex that bundles multiple digital stations) since August 1, 2021.
Digital and Online Radio
The digital space is occupied by several specialized services:
- Bailiwick Radio: Provides two 24-hour music services, Classics and Hits. It is accessible via the DAB+ Channel Island mux, TuneIn, and dedicated Apple and Android applications.
- Radio Youth FM: An internet-based station operated by young people aged 12 to 24, broadcasting up to 10 shows per week.
Historically, the island was also served by Contact 94, a radio station based in Normandy.
Key Facts
- Primary Transmitter: Frémont Point transmitting station in Saint John.
- Main TV Providers: ITV Channel Television and BBC Channel Islands.
- DAB Launch: Major local FM stations joined the Channel Island DAB mux on August 1, 2021.
- Youth Media: Radio Youth FM is run by individuals aged 12–24.
- Digital Music: Bailiwick Radio offers 24/7 "Classics" and "Hits" streams.
| Service Type | Provider/Station | Platform | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Television | ITV Channel Television | Terrestrial | Nightly regional news |
| Television | BBC Channel Islands | Terrestrial (BBC One) | Opt-out regional news |
| Radio | BBC Radio Jersey / Soleil / Channel 103 | FM / DAB | Local terrestrial broadcasting |
| Radio | Bailiwick Radio | DAB+ / Online / App | 24-hour music (Classics & Hits) |
| Radio | Radio Youth FM | Internet | Run by youth aged 12–24 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the main transmitting station for Jersey located?
The Frémont Point transmitting station is located in Frémont, Saint John, and handles both FM and television transmissions.
What are the local news times for BBC Channel Islands?
Local news is broadcast on BBC One each weeknight at 6:30 pm and 10:25 pm.
When did local radio stations become available on the Channel Island DAB mux?
BBC Radio Jersey, Soleil Radio, and Channel 103 have been available on the DAB mux since August 1, 2021.
Who operates Radio Youth FM?
Radio Youth FM is an internet radio station run by young people between the ages of 12 and 24.
How can I listen to Bailiwick Radio?
Bailiwick Radio is available via the DAB+ Channel Island mux, the TuneIn platform, and through dedicated apps for Android and Apple devices.