Guardian Media Group Joins Bid For Digital Radio Licence

The Guardian Media Group has joined with the GWR Group and Scottish Radio Holdings to bid for the second digital radio multiplex licence for London. The three groups are united under the Score Now consortium, which was formed in November (see GWR And Scottish Radio Unite In London Licence Bid)

The Radio Authority decided to make two more licences available in the London area after it awarded an initial licence to the CE consortium, which united Capital Radio and Emap (see Capital And EMAP Win First London Digital Licence). The second licence was advertised in September with the closing date for applications being 11 January 2000 (see Radio Authority Advertises Second London Digital Multiplex). Chrysalis Radio has already confirmed it will make a bid (see Chrysalis Radio To Bid For Second London Licence).

Each of the three shareholders in the Score Now consortium plans to run one of the services on the multiplex if the bid is successful. Managing director of Guardian Radio Holdings, John Myers, said: “Score Now is the perfect partner for GMG. It encompasses experience in the digital service, strong programming skills and three very big partners will ensure its success.”

The Greater London licence covers an adult audience of approximately 9.5 million people. The Authority expects to make its decision in spring.

Guardian Radio Holdings: 0468 186 989