UTV wins licence for new Belfast radio station

Communications regulator Ofcom has awarded UTV the new Belfast FM radio station broadcasting licence.

The U105 station, which will be operational early next year, is expected to create 30 new jobs.

The station will broadcast a mix of material, mostly talk and music, aimed at the over 45-age bracket directly to the Greater Belfast area and will also be available on the Freeview digital TV platform.

John Rosborough, Managing Director, U105 said: “This is excellent news for listeners over 45 which our research showed would welcome a station that combined stimulating topical speech with a wide choice of quality music from the 60’s right through to the present day. U105 will complement the existing local commercial stations and provide a strong alternative to BBC Radio Ulster.

“We look forward to a busy time ahead and to turning our proposals into a sound reality. U105 will be entirely locally produced and presented, creating more than 30 new jobs. While it will have a dedicated management and staff team, we can also draw upon the expertise and resources of the UTV group.”

John McCann, Group Chief Executive, UTV said: “UTV has a demonstrable track record in providing successful local television and radio services. U105 will be part of this long-established, successful media group, operating to the highest standards of public company governance and regulatory compliance, with a strong balance sheet and a track record of excellent financial performance.”

U105 will broadcast on 105.1 FM to Belfast and the surrounding area, and on the Freeview digital TV platform to all of Northern Ireland.

Commenting on the marketing of the new station Roy Bailie, Chairman of U105, said: "Seven out of ten listeners in this age group do not currently listen to local commercial radio, and we plan to change that with U105, which aims to be on air by early 2006.

“The radio station will inherit immediately the brand strength of UTV which our research revealed will enhance early take-up and drive listener loyalty. Our plans include a substantial marketing budget of more than £2 million to ensure U105 has a high profile and widespread awareness in its formative years.”

Yesterday, UTV announced 2004 pre-tax profits were up 28%. A rise attributed to a substantial increase in advertising spending in a market that had been flat in previous years.

(SP/MB)