UCB UK launches on DAB

UCB UK today became the first Christian radio station to broadcast on a UK DAB network.

UCB UK can be found on Switch Digital's Greater London DAB Network. Coverage extends beyond the M25 ring, out beyond Guildford in the south-west, Harpenden in the north-west, Epping and Basildon in the north-east and Maidstone and Sevenoaks in the south-east.

A larger coverage map can be found at www.ucb.co.uk/images/NGW_london_map.pdf


UCB News Release

Christian Radio Goes Digital in London
United Christian Broadcasters, one of the UK's leading Christian media charities, today launches the UK's first Christian DAB radio station in London. A little over three years since it received its Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) licence, United Christian Broadcasters (UCB) is pleased to announce the launch of its DAB digital radio station in London on January 15th 2007. This is a significant breakthrough for Christian radio broadcasting. UCB's DAB radio station is the first Christian digital radio station to be launched in London. Founded in 1986, UCB's objective has always been for national Christian radio broadcasting, but the passing into law of the Communications Bill in July 2003 meant that UCB would never be able to hold national AM or FM broadcasting licences. However, as UCB's Chief Executive, Ian Mackie, pointed out, there was 'light at the end of the tunnel': 'While the door to national AM or FM broadcasting was firmly closed, a new door opened. UCB was able to apply for DAB digital radio licences for local, regional and national coverage.' Although successful with its application for a DAB licence, at that time UCB discovered there was no capacity on the national DAB digital radio network and this situation was unlikely to change for several years. While national Christian radio broadcasting remained UCBýs top objective, UCBýs strategy became one of establishing a national network, region by region. 'As soon as we heard about capacity opening up in London, we immediately registered our interest', continued Mackie. Daniel Rose, Digital Development Director at Switchdigital, added: 'We are pleased to welcome UCB UK to the bouquet of services provided on the Greater London II multiplex, further increasing listener choice available on digital radio in the area.' Initially, UCB's DAB radio station will mirror UCB's flagship station, UCB UK, which is heard across the UK and Ireland on digital satellite, digital cable and the Internet. Air time for content and programming which reflects local/regional needs will start to be made available almost immediately, as Robbie Frawley, UCB's Radio Stations Manager, pointed out: UCB is already well-connected in London. We have plans to ensure compelling and relevant broadcasting in London and the Greater London area. We are keen to hear from individuals and organisations in the area to make sure we don't miss anything.' UCB's DAB Digital Radio station ident will be: UCB UK CHRISTIAN
05-Jan-2007	- UCB