Merged Smooth Radio going nationwide

Guardian Media Group (GMG) has confirmed plans to merge its five regional Smooth Radio stations into a single nationwide broadcaster based out of Manchester.

The enlarged Smooth Radio network will broadcast nationwide on the digital audio broadcasting (DAB) platform, along with Smooth's five existing FM frequencies in London, North West England, North East England, and the West and East Midlands.

A phased launch of the new merged station, which has been made possible by recent regulatory changes ushered in by Ofcom, will commence in October.

The move is intended to position Smooth Radio, which carries an easy-listening playlist aimed at over-40s, as the second largest national commercial station behind Classic FM.

Smooth Radio already broadcasts nationwide via online and digital TV platforms, including Sky, Freeview and Freesat.

According to GMG, Smooth listeners on the FM and regional DAB bands will continue to receive local news, travel, weather and adverts following the changes.

It is thought, though, that the new strategy could result in up to 60 Smooth Radio employees losing their jobs.

"The future of radio is all about establishing strong brands, available across multiple platforms, and the future for Smooth is as a truly national station," said GMG Radio chief executive Stuart Taylor.

"This deal with Digital One will enable Smooth to develop into one of the strongest names in UK radio. We regret the impact this will have on our people, but this new approach means Smooth Radio will be even better placed to serve its listeners and advertisers, more cost-efficient as a business, and in prime position for the digital future."

Last week, the Global Radio group announced plans to merge its 33 regional Heart stations into 15 "super stations", each with their own breakfast and drivetime shows.