Virgin Unsuccessful In FM Bid

The Radio Authority has announced this afternoon its intentions regarding the spare 105-108 MHz. It has not chosen a national network, which Virgin had called for; instead it favours a combination of ILR size services with new additional smaller local services.

This option is the “population-weighted” approach, where for example 3 new services would be centred around major cities, with a number of small area coverage stations.

RADIO AUTHORITY – MORE CHOICE FOR LISTENERS

The Radio Authority has chosen the population-weighted approach in deciding on the use for the remaining FM frequencies because it offers the most flexibility, whilst at the same time broadening choice for the largest number of listeners. This option means that there could be additional FM services in large metropolitan areas, and a number of smaller size services. The Authority received 450 submissions from interested parties.

The Authority has also decided upon specific priorities within this option:

SMALL SCALE

One third of the sub-band, between 107 and 108 MHz should be set aside for lower-powered services, for small-scale radio such as hospital broadcasters.

LARGER SCALE

The Authority wants to develop larger-scale radio services, including those who provide regional or metropolitan coverage of less widespread appeal than most existing ILR formats, initally within the 105-106 MHz band. Priority is likely to be given to regions where listeners currently have a more limited choice.

In the autumn of this year the Authority will issue a working list of specific locations where it plans to advertise new licences, with the intention of stations coming on air in 1996.

Radio Authority: 071 430 2724.