Twenty new radio stations set to launch in Rochdale

Ofcom has given the go-ahead for more than 20 new digital radio stations in Rochdale.

The new stations will be a part of the Oldham and Rochdale multiplex – an innovation which allows several stations to broadcast on the same frequency.

Local operator, Credible Focus Ltd, beat off competition from other bidders to secure the licence, which covers Rochdale, Oldham, and part of Tameside.

Credible Focus is a joint venture between the former owners of Revolution 96.2, Credible Media, and the operators of Sunrise Radio, based in Bradford.

Ofcom – which regulates TV, radio and mobile communications in the UK – is rolling out small-scale digital radio (ssDAB) across the UK, to increase access to the airwaves, and increase the range of radio stations for listeners.

Last month, the regulator awarded a number of licences across the north-west, including Bolton, Stockport and Wigan – as well as Oldham and Rochdale.

Managing director of Credible Media, Matt Ramsbottom, says local ownership of the multiplex was a big plus.

“We’ve been involved in local radio for several years, and were determined that we work collaboratively with other local broadcasters and industry experts to increase listener choice across the borough.

“The application process with Ofcom has been particularly tough, and our local and professional experience have now been backed by the regulator.”

Kevin Bailey, content director at Credible Focus says it’s a chance for smaller broadcasters to access digital radio: “Throughout the process, we’ve worked with smaller stations across Oldham and Rochdale, to make sure that access to the digital platform is straightforward and affordable.

“The multiplex is expected to increase the range of radio to listeners across the towns, including both national and local broadcasters. There will be a range of formats, from mainstream to specialist stations, ensuring there is something for everyone.”

Among the services available on the multiplex, is ‘Mom’s Spaghetti’, already operated by Credible Media in Manchester and online. Sunrise Radio will also be available on the new platform, along with a variety of dance and guitar-based indie stations.

Credible Focus is also working closely with Roch Valley Radio, along with Rochdale’s Crescent Radio, North Manchester FM and Oldham Community Radio to ensure smaller broadcasters can join the digital platform.

David Murphy, Chairman of Roch Valley Radio said: “This is fantastic news for not only Roch Valley Radio but for all those other stations in the north west that can now reach more of their communities through technologies in their cars and homes through DAB.

“We would like to thank all of those that have supported Roch Valley Radio over the past several years and more recently working with our partners and friends to make DAB a reality for us.”

Three transmitters will be switched on to provide the services, with stations expected to be on air by early 2023.

Almost sixty percent of radio listening is now on digital platforms, with plans to close AM and FM services within the next ten years.