It is understood that a 20% reduction was imposed on the £100m budget for the current financial year, which is expected to rise to 25% from April 2010.
This will include a reduction in print advertising and billboard campaigns.
Last week, UK media spend was said to be falling faster than in many other countries, according to a recent study by a leading advertising agency.
The ZenithOptimedia survey revealed that outdoor advertising is showing a downturn, going from $31.4m (£21.7m) in 2008 to $29.3m this year. However, an upturn is expected over the next two years.
No one from the BBC was available for comment.
See also:
Radio Times renews historic Polestar contract
New Johnston Press exec hits out at BBC and council-funded papers
