Deventer set to welcome new local broadcaster as Koekstad Media takes the lead
Residents of Deventer may soon tune into a new local broadcaster, Stichting Koekstad Media, after it was nominated to replace the current provider. The change could bring fresh programming and a stronger local voice, but final approval rests with the Dutch Media Authority.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Nominated Broadcaster | Stichting Koekstad Media |
| Current Broadcaster | Salland1 (Stichting Algemene Omroep Deventer) |
| License Expiry | May 20, 2026 |
| Nomination Period | 2026–2031 (or until December 31, 2027, if Media Act changes take effect) |
| Competing Applicants | Stichting Deventer Radio en Televisie |
| Decision-Maker | Dutch Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media) |
| Advisory Body | Advisory Council for Culture |
| Points of Attention | Digital infrastructure, governance, financial underpinning |
The municipality of Deventer plays a key role in nominating a local broadcaster, ensuring it meets legal and community standards. The Dutch Media Authority then makes the final designation, balancing local needs with national media regulations.
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Stichting Koekstad Media nominated as local broadcaster for Deventer
Stichting Koekstad Media has been nominated as the local broadcaster for the municipality of Deventer. This broadcaster is considered best equipped to fulfill the role of local public broadcaster. The current license, which expires on May 20, 2026, is held by Salland1 (Stichting Algemene Omroep Deventer).
The municipal executive (college van burgemeester en wethouders) proposes to the municipal council that Stichting Koekstad Media be nominated for the designation of the local broadcaster license for Deventer for the period 2026-2031.
The executive is making this proposal based on legal requirements, additional assessment criteria set by the council, and the resulting advice from the Advisory Council for Culture. The actual designation will be made by the Dutch Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media).
Role of the local broadcaster
The local broadcaster provides news and information about the immediate living environment to residents of the municipality. Additionally, the local broadcaster acts as the 'watchdog' of local politics and governance. It also has a unifying role within the municipality. The Media Authority can designate only one local broadcaster per municipality.
Three applications
The Dutch Media Authority has received three applications: from Stichting Algemene Omroep Deventer (Salland1), Stichting Koekstad Media, and Stichting Deventer Radio en Televisie. The Advisory Council for Culture has been asked to provide advice on these applications.
Positive assessment
The Advisory Council for Culture has a positive view of Koekstad Media’s application. It sees the broadcaster as a local media platform with clear roots in Deventer. Koekstad Media embodies Deventer in its image and programming. The organization understands what is happening in the city and develops vibrant, distinctive, and surprising formats.
Points of attention
However, the Advisory Council has also identified some points of attention. For example, clarity is needed regarding the digital infrastructure, the governance structure (how the organization is managed), and the financial underpinning. Koekstad Media will need to demonstrate these aspects in the coming period.
Designation period
The designation is generally valid for five years. However, it may be shorter due to a proposal to amend the Media Act. If this happens, the system of local public broadcasters will be replaced by a system of regional broadcasters. It appears that this amendment will take effect on January 1, 2028. In that case, the upcoming designation period will not last five years but only until December 31, 2027.
Role of the municipal council
The municipal council has established the additional assessment criteria. It is now up to the council to issue a preferred advice to the Dutch Media Authority regarding the designation of a new local broadcaster based on these criteria.
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