GATINEAU – The CRTC has approved applications for three English-language FMs in Charlottetown. Maritime Broadcasting System and Newcap will convert existing AM stations to the FM band, and Newcap will launch a new FM.
The commission turned down an application for a new station from Coast Broadcasting. The Coast application was to use the same frequency as the Maritime station, playing an adult pop music format targeting listeners 35 to 54.
Maritime will be able to convert its AM station CFCY to the FM band, at 95.1 MHz, maintaining its current country music format and local programming, aimed at the 25-54 demo. Newcap will move its existing AM, CHTN, to 100.3 MHz, playing classic hits and oldies, with music from the ‘60s to today, targeting a primarily female audience aged 35 to 54.
“The Commission has determined that approval of the two applications to convert existing AM stations to the FM band will serve to strengthen the existing two licensees in the market, without creating any undue negative impact on the Charlottetown radio market,” the decision said. Charlottetown’s economy is growing steadily enough to support one new station, the CRTC said.
In addition to flipping its AM station, Newcap will operate a new station, The Island FM, playing classic rock aimed at a 25-to-44 male demo. Newcap wanted to use the 89.9 MHz frequency, but the commission denied the request, saying it’s the last Class C1 channel available in Halifax, so Newcap has to choose another one frequency that won’t interfere, within three months.
In approving the Newcap proposal over Coast’s for a new station, the commission said the Newcap application “would ensure that a competitive balance in the Charlottetown market is maintained” since the Newcap and Maritime local management agreement was discontinued a year ago. It would also allow Newcap “to develop synergies” with its existing station, and would add programming diversity in Charlottetown. “The Commission has also taken into consideration Newcap’s significant commitment to expend $1 million over the licence term for Canadian talent development.”
“We are extremely pleased to receive CRTC approval for a new licence in Charlottetown,” said Newcap president Rob Steele in a statement. “We look forward to continuing to provide top quality reporting and entertainment to the region, and bringing even more diverse community service to local organizations.”
