Eight radio services have been found in breach of their licences after failing to pay annual licence fees to Ofcom on time.
The regulator says two radio licensees still failed to pay their annual fees, while six others subsequently made payment late after receiving Ofcom’s Preliminary View.
DOM Radio UK, operated by EMI Media Limited, and KCC Live, operated by MissionNeed Limited, were found in breach of Conditions 3(1) and 3(2) for non payment. The fees relate to periods commencing 30 June 2026 for DOM Radio UK and 30 June 2024 for KCC Live.
Ofcom says failure to pay a licence fee when required represents a significant and fundamental breach because it may prevent the regulator from properly carrying out its duties.
MissionNeed told Ofcom its delayed payment was caused by cash flow issues due to pending incoming funds and said it expected to settle the fee by the end of August.
The six radio licensees found in breach for late payment were Acacia Radio, 1BTN, 1 Brighton FM, LASER558, Ramadan Radio Live, Flex FM Northampton and Radio Cavell. 1BTN and 1 Brighton FM are both operated by Alias Music and Community Projects C.I.C., meaning six licensees account for seven services.
Alias Music and Community Projects apologised for its delayed payments and lack of communication, saying it had faced significant financial difficulties during the previous seven to eight months.
Northampton Community Radio Ltd confirmed it had paid its fee after receiving Ofcom’s Preliminary View, while The Royal Oldham Hospital said confusion over processing invoices resulted in Radio Cavell’s Broadcasting Act fee not being paid.
