Ofcom Finally Lifts Lid On New Local Radio Licences
Ofcom has unveiled its plans to launch up to thirty new FM radio licences throughout the UK with a gradual process of phasing in and a structured timetable for applications for broadcasting rights.
The process will see Ofcom advertise the licences for one non-metropolitan area each month and a licence for a metropolitan or regional area every two or three months. Edinburgh will be first to receive its new licence when it is advertised by the watchdog in June. Belfast will follow in September and Manchester will receive its new licence in November.
Smaller regions will be advertised at the same time with Blackburn’s license up for grabs in June. Ashford will be advertised sometime during July and Kidderminster’s licence will be put up for tender in August.
The regulator’s plans for the South West regional FM licence have also been reviewed, with three separate stations now being allowed in Cornwall, Plymouth and Exeter rather, than a single licence as had originally been proposed.
A newly created Radio Licensing Committee will oversee the process of license roll out. It will be chaired by Ofcom executives Ian Hargreaves and Kip Meek.
The new stations, introduced gradually over two years, will add to the existing 275 commercial radio stations currently broadcasting within the UK. Several high profile broadcasting companies have already expressed interest in snatching the licences.
Earlier this month Emap confirmed its intention to extend the reach of it’s so-called hero brands, Kerrang!, Kiss and Magic with applications for regional FM licenses. The company has already announced a launch date for Kerrang 105.2 FM in the West Midlands and has completed a trial broadcast period with the format in Manchester (see Kerrang Radio Prepares FM Broadcasts In Manchester).
Ofcom: 020 7981 3040 www.ofcom.org.uk
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