'CSA selects first wave of digital radio stations'

French media regulator CSA has selected digital terrestrial radio stations for Paris, Nice and Marseilles, which could start broadcasting by December. In an effort to speed up the deployment of digital terrestrial radio, Paris was chosen because of its large population, and Marseille and Nice because frequencies will be freed up on 25 November, when Canal Plus switches off its TV broadcasts. CSA chose 55 stations in Paris, including 7 stations that are not already available on FM or are not present in Paris. CSA likewise selected 41 stations in Marseilles, including 12 new projects, and 40 in Nice, with 13 new ones. LCI Radio, RTL-L'Equipe, Europe 1 Sport and R20 will be the four new national digital stations. The regulator will launch a consultation in the middle of June before publishing a schedule of future regional tenders. The next selection of candidates will be made in the first half 2010 ahead of stations going on air in December 2010.

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