Ulster TV Wins Belfast FM Licence

Government media watchdog, Ofcom, has awarded a new 12-year FM commercial radio licence for Belfast to U105, owned by multi-media group Ulster TV (UTV).

Ofcom received eleven applications for the hotly contested radio licence, which will broadcast to an adult population of around 750,000 in Belfast and the surrounding area.

Commenting on the deal, Roy Bailie chairman of U105 said: “We are absolutely delighted to win this licence against stiff competition from local, national and international groups. The radio station will inherit immediately the brand strength of UTV which our research revealed will enhance early take-up and drive listener loyalty.”

U105 will offer listeners topical speech and a wide choice of music, from the “Gold era to the present day” and will be aimed primarily at the over 45 age group.

UTV aims to have U105 on air by early 2006 and its plans include a substantial marketing budget of more than £2 million to ensure U105 has a high profile and widespread awareness in its formative years.

Last month Ofcom awarded a FM commercial radio licence to ACE FM, part of Midlands News Association regional press group. The new licence will provide Kidderminster and the local surrounding area with a locally focussed music, news and information schedule for 25-54 year olds within the vicinity (see Ofcom Awards Kidderminster FM Licence To ACE FM).

Yesterday, Ulster TV reported a strong performance in 2004 with group turnover up by 18% year on year to £63.5 million. Pre-tax profit was revealed to have risen by a massive 46% to £13.9 million in the same period (see Ulster TV Sees 2004 Profits Soar).

Ofcom: 020 7981 3040 www.ofcom.org.uk

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