FM107.9 Format change declined

Ofcom has refused a request from Passion Radio Oxford to change the Format of Oxford's FM 107.9.

The station wanted to change the music Format and target audience, from playing a mix of cutting edge and credible chart music targeting 15-29s to an easy listening soft music service aimed at a 45-plus audience.

Ofcom said today that the request would have substantially altered the stations character of service, and after just five of 96 responses to the public consultation were in favour, declined the request.

However, the station is OK with the refusal. In an email to local businesses, the station says: "Since the station first made this application request to Ofcom some 6 months ago, a number of things have happened which have made this music format change less necessary."

Ian Walker, General Manager of FM107.9 and sister station 106 JACKfm adds: "Clearly there is now an even greater a gap in the market for a local radio station that appeals to people under 30 who not only want to hear great music, but also want to know what is relevant in their county, with local news, local traffic, local events and appealing to local advertisers".