Ofcom has given TLRC permission to re-name Durham FM and Minster Northallerton to include the Alpha brand, whilst approving Format changes to network the three stations 20 hours a day.
TLRC, which is now controlled by UKRD, has approval to change Durham FM to Alpha Durham, and Minster Northallerton to Alpha Northallerton.
All programmes on Alpha Radio and Alpha Durham will be shared, except for a local breakfast show and four hour show on Saturday and Sunday, each made locally.
Alpha Northallerton already originates 24 hours a day from Alpha Radio, but will retain a local show for four hours per day, albeit from Darlington. Each station will continue to broadcast locally relevant news and commercials, at least until the DAB upgrade, when the three services are intended to become one.
Previously, TLRC asked for Ofcom approval to move Durham FM further north to Sunderland to share to Sun FM, but a decision has been delayed by the regulator.
On approving the changes, Ofcom said: "This is not seen a major change to the stations’ output, and the request is granted…"
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