Belfast’s Citybeat has joined the Q radio network and rebranded as Q, now sharing a number of programmes with the existing six-strong network of Q stations.
Q bought Citybeat from CN Group in January and is planning a marketing campaign for the new station name later this month.
Robert Walshe, MD of Q told RadioToday.ie: “We’re making significant investment in our output with local mornings shows on all seven stations and extra reporters in each of our separate transmission areas.”
There are now Q stations in Belfast, the North West, Tyrone & Fermanagh, Mid Ulster, Mid Antrim, North Coast and The Mournes.
The network provides two breakfast shows – one for Belfast and one for the rest of the Q network, then each of the seven stations has a local mid-morning show from 10am till 1pm. All stations then join together for the rest of the day but with split news, adverts and local information.
Citybeat launched on 96.7 FM on 1 October 1996, after six years known as Belfast Community Radio, or BCR. From 5 April 2007, Citybeat became available on 102.5FM for North Belfast, Newtownabbey and Carrickfergus, then on 2 November 2007, Citybeat launched a third FM transmitter also broadcasting on 102.5FM for Bangor.
Back on breakfast with @breakfastcate in the morning
Same show, different name! #Qbreakfast pic.twitter.com/jO75z1GNAt
— Stephen Clements (@radiostephen) August 9, 2015