A NEW era of digital radio is about to dawn in Kent with the award of a local multiplex licence to the only bidder.

London-based Capital Radio Digital, a consortium including the Kent Messenger Group, Invicta Radio and Saga Radio, will serve most of the county when it goes on air.

The Radio Authority backed the bid "after considering the proposals submitted by the sole applicant”.

The new local “multiplex” bundle of services will provide listeners with a wider choice and offer what the Radio Authority called "unprecedentedly clear reception”.

But listeners will need a digital radio or personal computer to be able to hear the new service, which may also provide traffic information and other data services.

The new service will broadcast BBC Radio Kent and a range of music stations, including Invicta FM and Capital Gold.

Kent Digital Extra, a subsidiary of the Kent Messenger Group, will offer adult contemporary and classic hits, together with local news.

Saga Regional Digital, a subsidiary of the Folkestone-based supplier of holidays and financial services for the over-50s, will broadcast easy listening.

Capital Radio will offer Xfm, a "credible new music" station, while Kiss (Emap Performance) will provide dance.

A community channel provide has yet to be confirmed, while another channel will be shared between Swale Sound and Totally Radio (Festival Productions) providing alternative sounds.

The new service is due to start in April next year. The licence will run for 12 years from start of broadcasting.