Staff at Stockport's 104.9 Imagine FM are awaiting the outcome of news this week that owners UTV are doing an Xfm – saying the station will be sold or shut by the end of the month if a buyer can't be found.
The news comes after a request to co-locate 104.9 Imagine FM to its new purpose-built radio centre in Warrington was rejected by Ofcom.
Scott Taunton, managing director at UTV Radio (GB), said: “My first consideration is for the staff at 104.9 Imagine FM and I will personally ensure they are kept informed of developments over the next few weeks. They work hard to produce a quality service for the people of Stockport and south Manchester.
“Every possible alternative for the future of the station is currently being investigated including the possibility of a sale or by finding alternative broadcast facilities in the area.
“However, if a buyer or alternative broadcasting facility cannot be found by June 30 2008 UTV Radio (GB) will have no alternative but to hand back the licence to Ofcom and the station will be taken off air. If that regretful decision is taken alternative employment for Imagine FM staff will be offered elsewhere in the UTV Group where possible.”
