STV faces strong criticism from the National Union of Journalists over plans to replace several regional news programmes with a single Glasgow-based show, even though the new STV News At 6 would include some north-specific content.

NUJ national organiser Nick McGowan-Lowe says the revisions are watered down but still harmful for viewers, advertisers, journalism, and the STV brand, and he warns of potential redundancies for STV staff.

STV argues that ground news gathering will continue at Aberdeen, Inverness, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Dundee, and that around 30% of the new north-focused content will be region-specific.

Ofcom’s consultation signals a regulatory path for the regional news changes, highlighting the clash between STV’s business strategy and concerns about regional journalism quality.

The clash exemplifies a broader tension between cost-cutting centralisation and preserving region-specific journalism in Scotland.

STV's CEO Rufus Radcliffe defends the plan as necessary to adapt to changing viewing habits and sustain commercial viability, while promising high-quality news and supporting Scotland’s digital ambitions.

Radcliffe reiterates that the changes are needed in a rapidly evolving media landscape and emphasizes ongoing dialogue with Ofcom.

Despite preserving some regional content, union leaders warn the changes would harm journalism and regional identity, with the regulatory review still underway.

SNP MP Kirsty Blackman urges viewers to engage with Ofcom’s consultation, arguing the North’s regional news would weaken under a single Glasgow-based programme and warning of job losses.

Ofcom has opened a consultation on STV’s licence changes for north and central Scotland and signals it plans to approve the amendments, with public input sought by February next year.

NUJ Scotland reports high strike-related sentiment at STV News, with 94% voting for strike action and 98% for action short of a strike in opposition to the plans, indicating significant industrial unrest.