The broadcasting regulator “proposes to accept” new proposals from STV which will see the retention of some news services in the north of Scotland.
STV bosses previously announced plans to replace its central belt and north of Scotland news programmes with a single show from Glasgow.
However, the broadcaster says its plans for a new STV News At 6 programme will contain some dedicated news output for viewers in the north.
It stresses that news-gathering operations will continue on the ground in all its existing sites, across Aberdeen, Inverness, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dundee.
And while the STV News At 6 programme will be produced and presented from Glasgow about 30% of the programme in the north will be specific to the area.
Broadcasting regulator Ofcom is now consulting on the changes but has said it proposes to accept STV’s request to make changes to its licence for the north and central Scotland.
It comes just over a week after journalists at STV voted for strike action in a dispute over the proposals.
STV CEO Rufus Radcliffe said: “STV is an iconic Scottish business with a brilliant schedule of programmes for viewers which delivers unrivalled mass reach for advertisers. We’re incredibly proud of what we do, and we have a clear strategy in place to ensure our continued contribution to Scotland’s creative economy.
“Businesses cannot stand still when their industry is changing and when consumers are changing their behaviour fundamentally and at pace.
“Viewing habits have transformed and we must adapt and provide the services that people demand, and ensure that we are a future-facing, commercially sustainable business.”
He continued: “We have had valuable ongoing dialogue with Ofcom and considered very carefully the changes we need to put in place, and we are pleased the regulator proposes to accept this plan.
“The model presented will enable the continued delivery of high-quality news that we are proud of and will see STV realise its digital news ambitions, serving viewers across Scotland.”
