Change to the Format of Kix 96: a consultation

Summary

1. CN Group is owner of Kix 96 in Coventry . It wishes to make changes to the Format of the station which, in the view of Ofcom, would substantially change the character of service of the station.
2. The present Format requires a roughly equal mix of music between the Current Top 40, Reggae/Soul, and Dance. It also requires Irish music in non-daytime.
3. They propose a station which would “play a mix of adult contemporary music from the 60s/70s/80s/90s/00s and current-recurrent hits. Current chart hits will comprise no more than 25% of music output.” They also wish to be released from the obligation to play Irish music. CN’s full submission is attached.
4. Ofcom has the ability to consent to such a change under conditions included in Kix 96’s licence, in accordance with Sections 106 (1A) and (1B) of the Broadcasting Act 1990 (Appendix 1), if it is satisfied that:

• the change would not narrow the range of programmes available by way of relevant independent radio services in Coventry ; or
• the change would be conducive to the maintenance or promotion of fair and effective competition in Coventry ; or
• there is evidence that, amongst persons living in Coventry , there is significant demand for, or significant support for, the change.

1. Before deciding whether to consent to this change, Ofcom is required under section 106ZA of the Broadcasting Act 1990 (also Appendix 1) to consult (a minimum of 28 days) those likely to be affected. This consultation is therefore seeking views on the proposal to change the character of the Kix 96 service.

The full consultation is available below