THE Kent Messenger Group have expanded their local radio interests in the county by acquiring ownership of Neptune Radio covering the towns of Folkestone and Dover.

The Radio Authority were today informed that KMG have reached agreement with Radio Services to purchase their 63 per cent holding in Neptune (South Kent Radio Limited). KMG were a founding investor and had a 37 per cent holding.

This purchase results in KMG now having controlling interests in three neighbouring East Kent stations (Thanet Local Radio, CTFM and Neptune) with a combined listenership potential of about 400,000.

However, Kent Messenger Group Newspapers Managing Director, David Lewis, confirmed each station will continue to focus on its local area and that plans were in place to improve their local news and information.

“While there are natural commercial benefits from an operations perspective in running three stations, their growth and development will depend on the local service they offer listeners and advertisers.

“Our whole strategy is built on local news and information and we are happy to re-assure the Radio Authority that this remains the policy.”

KMG announced a similar agreement with Radio Services last month to take a controlling interest in CTFM, Canterbury and has submitted its presentation to the Radio Authority as required under current Public Interest legislation.

The Neptune purchase will require a further submission to the Radio Authority by KMG.

“We have a lot of work to do to get the best out of these stations and bring them to a sound economic footing to ensure their long term success,” said Lewis. “We have now spent £5 million investing in local radio, which reflects our commitment to their development. They are part of our long term Kent Media strategy."