Bauer buys Radio Plymouth to extend GHR network

Radio Plymouth has been purchased by Bauer Media to rebrand it as Greatest Hits Radio.

The station is currently locally owned and operated 24 hours a day, and lists Jon White on Breakfast, Gavin Marshall on Daytime, Neil Walker on Drive and Martin Mills at the weekend.

RadioToday expects all programmes will be networked with Greatest Hits Radio UK, and take the current South West Region drive show with Tony Wright, but Bauer is unable to confirm any further details at this stage.

As with all other GHR stations, local news and information will continue to air.

The deal is scheduled to be finalised at the end of this month when the staff at the station will find out about their roles at the station.

Dee Ford, Group Managing Director of Bauer Radio, told RadioToday: “We are delighted to welcome Radio Plymouth to Bauer. It complements our offering and extends our geographical reach into the Plymouth area.

“The station will continue to benefit from multi-platform digital distribution so it can continue to broadcast in an increasingly competitive, digital and voice-activated world.

“This ensures the provision of local news and information, traffic and travel for listeners. In addition, advertisers will continue to gain access to this highly valued audience.”

Tricia Duff, Managing Director of Radio Plymouth, said: “After 17 years in existence and ten years on-air we are all aware that the commercial radio network has changed dramatically in recent times. The board of Radio Plymouth understands the evolving nature of the industry, and indeed the high street, and believes the best way forward is well reflected by the local/national mix of output that has proved sustainable.

“The broadcasting landscape is significantly different from when Radio Plymouth first launched with trial broadcasts back in 2003 so we are pleased to secure a more stable future for many of our staff and continuing radio diversity in this dynamic and exciting waterfront city.”

Radio Plymouth started full time on 106.7FM in 2010 and currently has 35,000 listeners each week according to RAJAR.

It featured Phillip Schofield who was an investor in the station, and Tony Blackburn’s Soul Show when it launched.