Independent station Radio Essex is in the process of being acquired by Communicorp UK, RadioToday can reveal.
The service, previously known recently as Southend Radio and Chelmsford Radio, broadcasts an AC hit music format on 105.1 FM, 107.7 FM, and on DAB across the county.
Communicorp UK has been involved in the station for the last few years through a Management Agreement but has now agreed terms with its owner, Adventure Radio, to take full ownership.
Mark Lee, CCUK Chief Executive Officer, told RadioToday: “I can confirm that we are in the process of acquiring Radio Essex and let the team know on Friday.
“We are currently speaking with the team and will take the next two months to decide how best to grow the station for the future.”
Radio Essex’s national sales are currently handled by Bauer Media. Under this arrangement, Bauer sells national airtime, brand partnerships, and digital audio representation for the station.
Chelmer FM launched on 107.7 FM in 1998, becoming Dream 107.7 under Tindle Radio in 2002 and Chelmsford Radio under Adventure Radio in 2009.
Southend Radio launched on 105.1 FM in March 2008, following the award of its licence in 2005. Both stations shared programming and were also broadcast on DAB across Essex as Radio Essex.
Southend Radio and Chelmsford Radio were replaced by the Radio Essex brand in March 2015.
