Hits Radio Liverpool is set to leave its base in St John’s Beacon, concluding a 25-year chapter.
- The station’s owner, Bauer Media, has opted not to renew the lease at the prominent Radio City Tower.
- Radio City Tower, a landmark in Liverpool, has a long history, including once housing a revolving restaurant.
- The move marks a shift in broadcast locations, with plans to continue operations from another city site.
- Liverpool Community Radio has clarified that it will not be moving into the soon-to-be-vacant space.
Hits Radio Liverpool is preparing to say farewell to its long-standing home at St John’s Beacon, widely recognised as the Radio City Tower, after a substantial 25-year period. The station’s departure follows Bauer Media’s decision not to renew the lease, which has been a key milestone in Liverpool’s broadcasting history.
Standing at 453 feet, the Grade II-listed tower has been a part of Liverpool’s skyline since 1969. Initially built as a revolving restaurant, it has had several uses over the years, turning into a ‘Buck Rogers’ themed venue in the 1980s before being renovated for radio use in 2000.
The transformation of the tower for radio broadcasting was a significant investment by Emap Radio, costing £5 million and culminating in its rebranding as Radio City Tower. However, the broadcasting giant Bauer now plans a transition, with the final live show scheduled for December 24.
From this point, Greatest Hits Radio Breakfast will broadcast nationally from Bauer’s Northwest hub. Meanwhile, Hits Radio Liverpool will remain active, continuing its broadcasting from another city location as part of Bauer’s strategy to enhance its infrastructure and facilities.
A statement from Bauer highlights pride in their part played in the history of St John’s Beacon while emphasizing forward-looking investments to support their evolving needs. The iconic Radio City 96.7 signage remains under leasing agreements despite these changes, as Bauer explores possibilities with local authorities for rebranding.
In a related development, Liverpool Community Radio has addressed speculation regarding its potential move into the Radio City Tower. The community station confirmed via social media that it holds no interest in relocating, thereby dispelling circulating rumours to the amusement of its staff.
The relocation signifies a strategic transformation for Hits Radio Liverpool, marking the end of an era while paving the way for new opportunities.
