Radio Authority Renews Q103 FM’s Local Licence

114/03

3 November 2003

Radio Authority Renews Q103 FM’s Local Licence for Cambridge & Newmarket

The Radio Authority has today (3 November) announced that it is renewing the local licence on the FM waveband for the Cambridge & Newmarket area held by Cambridge & Newmarket FM Radio Ltd. (a wholly owned subsidiary of the GWR Group plc), broadcasting as Q103 FM, to run for a further licence period with effect from 1 January 2004. This is due to the fact that Cambridge & Newmarket FM Radio Ltd. will be the provider of a digital programme service on the Cambridge local multiplex.

Under the terms of the Broadcasting Act 1996, a local radio licence holder is entitled to apply for an automatic renewal of its licence, if it is providing (or is committed to provide) a programme service on a 'relevant' digital radio multiplex. The Authority regards a 'relevant' multiplex as one which provides digital coverage of at least 25% of the population already covered by the analogue licence in question. The condition of this renewed local FM licence will require Q103 to do all that it can to ensure the continued provision of the digital service.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

The Radio Authority is responsible for licensing and regulating Independent Radio in accordance with the statutory requirements of the Broadcasting Acts 1990 and 1996. It plans frequencies, awards licences, regulates programming and advertising, and plays an active role in the discussion and formulation of policies which affect the Independent Radio industry and its listeners.
At the end of this year, the Radio Authority will cease to exist, and its responsibilities for licensing and regulating Independent Radio will pass to Ofcom, the new converged regulator for the communications sector. See the Ofcom transitional website at www.ofcom.org.uk for more details.

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