The Radio Authority has today awarded the second local digital multiplex licence for London to the Switch Digital consortium. Formed by the Wireless Group, Clear Channel International and Ginger Media, the consortium was one of three bids for the licence, which was advertised last year (see Radio Authority Advertises Second London Digital Multiplex).
Switch will broadcast a total of eight commercial programme services, including Classic Soul provided by Virgin Radio, easy listening from Clear Channel and Saga Radio, Jazz FM, and two services from the Wireless Group. It is due to commence broadcasting in June this year.
The first local digital multiplex licence was awarded to the CE consortium, which comprises Capital and EMAP, and is due to go on air in May (see Capital And EMAP Win First London Digital Licence). Announcing the first award, the Radio Authority decided to advertise two more digital multiplex licences for the London area.
After announcing its intention to bid for the second licence, the Switch Digital consortium was joined in its partnership by Carphone Warehouse, which owns a 5% stake in the group (see Carphone Warehouse Joins Switchdigital).
Commenting on the award, the chair of the Radio Authority, Richard Hooper, said: “Members were especially impressed with the range of new services offered to the London digital listener by Switch Digital and by its positive approach to the management and marketing of the digital multiplex.”
Radio Authority: 020 7430 2724 Switch Digital: 020 7467 8023
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