New community radio station plan as change announced for Siren Radio

The University of Lincoln is set to transfer the licence of Siren Radio over to Brayford Broadcasting C.I.C. Siren FM was created at the University in 1997 and for decades it has been a community station loved by students, staff and the residents of the city.

In February 2024, it was confirmed by the university that the community radio station would be replaced with a next-generation audio production platform. This decision caused a lot of frustration amongst the volunteers at the station as well as its listeners but the station ceased broadcasting on Sunday, June 30,

However, it was confirmed on Monday, July 1, that the station would be continuing under a new name. A spokesperson for Brayford Broadcasting C.I.C, a not-for-profit organisation, has confirmed that the former Siren Radio FM radio licence would be transferred.

Following discussions between senior management at the University, former staff members and volunteers from Siren Radio, it has been agreed subject to Ofcom approval, that the radio licence would be transformed to Brayford Broadcasting C.I.C, which will establish a new community radio station called Witham Radio.

This will be an independent community station not associated with the University of Lincoln. This station will broadcast transmissions on the former Siren Radio frequency of 107.3MHz, but initially, it will be online only until the licence transfer is agreed by Ofcom and equipment has been moved from the University.

A spokesperson for the University of Lincoln stated: "We are pleased to support the transfer of the FM licence to Brayford Broadcasting CIC subject to Ofcom approval. The University’s working group, The Sound of the Future consultation, has involved a wide range of stakeholders to investigate future options for equipping students with the knowledge and skills to support their careers in the digital media landscape.

"We will be implementing these ideas in our courses from September.” As Siren Radio has ceased in broadcasting, there will be no broadcasts on the FM frequency until the licence transfer is completed.

Witham Radio's management, programming and on-air team will be made up of radio professionals as well as former volunteers and staff from Siren FM. They will produce high-quality programming dedicated to reflecting the unique energy and culture of Lincoln.

A spokesperson for Brayford Broadcasting C.I.C. added: "We would like to thank the faithful audience and community supporters for being part of our Siren Radio family for the past 17 years and welcome you to be an active and enthusiastic part of our brand-new WITHAM RADIO family."