The Radio Authority (RA) has reviewed the output of London’s alternative radio station Xfm since it was acquired by Capital Radio last July (see Newsline).
The RA took regulatory action against Xfm in October 1998, fining Capital Radio £4,000 (see Newsline). During the transfer of Xfm’s operation from Charlotte Street to Capital’s headquarters in Leicester Square, the station broadcast a looped tape of songs, and the radio watchdog found that the new Xfm was failing to meet the requirements of its licence (see Newsline). According to the RA, it has received over 600 complaints about the station since it was acquired by Capital
The regulator has now reached the conclusion however, that although Xfm’s output has become more mainstream following its takeover by Capital, the station is now complying with the terms of its licence and its music output is now within acceptable boundaries.
Martin Campbell, head of programming and advertising at the RA, commented on the watchdog’s review: “The musical direction – within the boundaries set by Xfm’s original application – is a decision made by Xfm. As long as the core spirit is outside the mainstream they are operating within the Authority’s regulations.
“Xfm are on record as wishing to stay loyal to non-mainstream music, breaking new bands and live sessions. The Authority wishes them well in achieving that aim and in operating a successful station within the terms of their licence.”
The station announced last week that it has reached the end of its launch consultancy contract with Planet 24, and that the station’s new schedule will be reaching the airwaves on 15 February (see Newsline).
As regards RA licence developments, the radio regulator has received the application from the existing Cornwall licence holder Pirate FM, for a local licence for a further term of eight years from 3 April 2000. The application has been submitted under the ‘special application’ procedure set up to facilitate fast track re-licensing.
Radio Authority: 0171 430 2724 Capital Radio: 0171 766 6000
