Up to 40 local journalists are believed to be at risk of redundancy in plans to centralise radio news.

HTFP understands Global Radio is undertaking a restructure of its 11 newsrooms across the country, some of which are set to close.

The plan is estimated to have put between three and five reporters and newsreaders working in each newsroom at risk of redundancy.

Between 30 and 40 journalists are thought to be affected overall.

Those affected are based in Glasgow, Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham, Milton Keynes, Bristol, Cardiff, Wrexham and Fareham.

It is understood some of those centres will also close as part of the restructure – including Leeds and Newcastle.

As a result, news about Newcastle and the North-East of England will be broadcast from a hub in Glasgow.

Stories about Leeds and Yorkshire will be broadcast from a hub in Manchester, HTFP understands.

Radio brands served by Global’s local journalists include the Capital, Heart and Smooth networks across the country.

A Global spokesperson told HTFP: “Whilst it wouldn’t be appropriate to comment on specific circumstances that may affect individuals, like any business, we’re constantly reviewing our structures and processes.”

Paul Siegert, NUJ national broadcasting organiser, said: “This is yet another blow for local and regional news coverage.

“This comes at a time when the BBC also wants to cut back on its local radio output and news services and local newspapers have also been cutting back and axing journalism jobs.

“Yet there is a real appetite from local people to know what’s going on in their communities.

“We call on the BBC and Global to rethink their plans.”