The UK government has launched its first comprehensive local media strategy in a generation, pledging up to £12 million to support struggling regional journalism, drive digital innovation, and

tackle the growing problem of “news deserts.”

Announced by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy at the Society of Editors’ Future of News Conference on Tuesday (17 March), the plan signals a renewed focus on strengthening local reporting as a cornerstone of democracy and community life.

A lifeline for local journalism

At the heart of the strategy is a new multi-year Local News Fund, designed to help publishers transition to sustainable, digital-first business models. The funding will also support community radio stations and encourage innovation in tools such as advertising technology, mobile apps, and website infrastructure.

The government says the initiative could play a critical role in reversing the decline of local media, with 37 UK districts currently lacking dedicated news outlets—leaving an estimated 4.4 million people without reliable local coverage.

Part of the funding will be directed toward reviving journalism in these underserved areas, potentially through new community-owned titles, expansion of existing outlets, or the relaunch of dormant publications.

“Essential, not optional”

Speaking at the conference, Nandy stressed that local journalism is fundamental to a healthy society—not a luxury.

She described the strategy as a starting point for a broader effort to rebuild trust, widen public debate, and create opportunities for aspiring journalists from diverse backgrounds.

“Local media has always been a ladder of opportunity,” she said, adding that the government aims to place it “at the heart” of national support systems.

Boosting young talent and school access

The strategy also looks to the future workforce. New campaigns—including an expansion of the “Newspapers for Schools” initiative—will aim to inspire young people to pursue careers in journalism.

In addition, all state schools in England will be guaranteed digital access to a wide range of trusted local and national news sources, helping students develop media literacy and stay informed.

West of England Pilot and Public Scrutiny

A pilot Regional Media Forum in the West of England will explore ways to strengthen collaboration between journalists and public institutions. The goal is to improve reporting on local decision-making and enhance scrutiny of public services.

The government is also reviewing how statutory public notices are published, with an emphasis on maintaining their link to local news outlets.

 Industry welcomes the move

Media leaders have broadly welcomed the strategy. Dawn Alford, Chief Executive of the Society of Editors, said the plan recognises the vital role local journalism plays in holding power to account and reflecting community voices.

She noted that many publishers have successfully expanded their digital reach, with some now engaging up to 80% of their local audiences.

Owen Meredith, Chief Executive of the News Media Association, highlighted the importance of ensuring publishers are fairly compensated in an evolving digital landscape—particularly as large technology platforms dominate advertising revenues.

He also praised the government’s commitment to increasing the use of local media in public advertising campaigns, which currently reach around 77% of UK adults.

Rebuilding trust and reach

The strategy commits central government to making better use of local and hyperlocal media for public information campaigns, while also encouraging businesses to invest more in local advertising channels.

With the media landscape rapidly changing, ministers hope the plan will not only sustain existing outlets but also foster innovation, improve transparency, and reconnect communities with trusted sources of information.

As Nandy put it: the future of news is local—and this plan is just the beginning.