Ofcom approves Capital format change

Ofcom has approved two Format change requests from Global Radio for Capital FM Scotland and Capital FM Birmingham.

Both requests were subject to public consultation to which all but one of the replies were against the change going ahead.

Capital FM Scotland’s format previously included requirements to provide “a fresh dynamic mix of new rock and dance music for Central Scotland for listeners below 39, with at least 30 hours a week of identifiable specialist music programmes”. Now the station is required to be “a rhythmic-based music-led service for 15-29 year-olds supplemented with news, information and entertainment. The service should have particular appeal for listeners in their 20s and at least 12 hours a week of identifiable specialist music programmes”.

Out of the ten public responses, not one were in favour of the change.

Capital FM Birmingham’s format was to provide “a rhythmic-based music and information station primarily for listeners of African or Afro-Caribbean origin, but with cross-over appeal to young white fans of urban contemporary black music and at least 26 hours a week of identifiable specialist music programmes (to include reggae, RnB and hip hop rhythmic-based (e.g. dance, club etc.))”.

Global wanted to change this Format to the same as Scotland but changed the request after a public consultation to add “and include programmes of specific appeal to listeners of African or Afro-Caribbean origin” in order to secure Ofcom approval.

It total, 13 people responded to the consultation – to which 12 were against. Global Radio were contacted by RadioToday.co.uk for a response but declined to comment.