Derry’s council requested BBC change ‘damaging’ documentary title

By Alan Healy

Deputy Editor

DERRY’s council asked the BBC to change the title of a programme broadcast yesterday over concerns it could damage the potential for future investment.

On Sunday, BBC Radio Ulster broadcast ‘Broke City’, a documentary which formed part of its ‘Stories in Sound’ series.

Hosted by the BBC News NI's business editor, John Campbell, the half hour programme looked at the factors behind Derry’s unemployment figures and historic lack of investment, and what measures could be taken to reverse the years of economic decline.

However, on Friday, Mr Campbell posted a letter on Social Media he received from Derry City and Strabane District Council requesting that name of the documentary be changed over fears that it could have ‘potentially damaging consequences’ on negotiations including the ongoing lobbying for a City Deal.

The council said it was ‘very disappointed’ at title chosen for the programme by the BBC and it could affect the ‘really positive work’ being carried out by the local authority.

FULL STORY: TODAY'S DERRY NEWS PRINT EDITION