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Summary

1.1 GMG Radio, the operator of 100.4 Smooth Radio (North West England), is seeking to change the station Format from a station “targeted at North-West listeners of all ages who particularly like jazz, soul, blues and R’n’B” to “an easy listening station featuring easy listening music including jazz, soul, blues and R&B targeting an audience aged 50 plus.”

1.2 GMG is proposing to retain the 45 hours of specialist jazz programmes it currently broadcasts outside of daytime.

1.3 GMG’s submission is attached at Annex 4 and it includes the Format that GMG is proposing.

1.4 Ofcom has the ability to consent to such changes under conditions included in the 100.4 Smooth Radio licence, in accordance with Sections 106 (1A) of the Broadcasting Act 1990 (Annex 5) if it is satisfied that at least one of the following criteria is satisfied:

1. The departure would not substantially alter the character of the service
2. The change would not narrow the range of programmes available by way of relevant independent radio services
3. The change would be conducive to the maintenance or promotion of fair and effective competition or
4. There is evidence that, amongst persons living in the affected areas, there is a significant demand for, or significant support for, the change

1.5 As Ofcom regards the change to the character of service as substantial, (criterion (a) above), it is required to carry out a public consultation.

1.6 Ofcom therefore seeks views on the request, having particular regard to the Broadcasting Act 1990 Section 106(1A), as set out above and in full in Annex 5.

1.7 Annex 6 sets out the present 100.4 Smooth Radio Format and Annex 7 lists the links to other commercial station Formats presently operating in the North West. Community station details can also be found within Annex 7.

• 100.4 Smooth Radio (North West England) [pdf]
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