There was definitely something in the airwaves recently as local radio station Lisburn’s 98FM announced their move to new premises on Castle Street in Lisburn City Centre.

The move comes as part of plans to expand the station’s broadcast services following three successful years at their previous location in South Eastern Regional College (SERC). The station is now fully operational at its new home, located in the former Brian Burke Hair Salon.

Lisburn’s 98FM, a volunteer run, dedicated community station serving the greater Lisburn area, hosted an official launch which was attended by specially invited guests and listeners on Friday 22 May – including the Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh, Councillor Thomas Beckett.

The launch began with an update from station co-ordinator Colm McAlinden, who outlined volunteer contributions and station achievements thus far, as well as showcasing the current broadcast schedule. Guests were then treated to a tour of the new studio facilities, with many featuring as part of a live broadcast hosted by Station Manager Michael Clarke.

"We are delighted to have moved to such a fantastic location”, said Colm following the opening.

“We can now offer live lounge sessions, recording, rehearsal and music production to help develop musicians into professional artists, produce new music and provide inspiring music programs.”

Each studio is equipped with new desks, mixers and pioneering equipment - and is hi-tech enough for bands/artists to perform just feet away from the studio.

“The new 'purpose-built' premises will provide us with more space, modern facilities and professional equipment to enhance our service to our listeners.

“It’s a significant upgrade from the previous premises, which will be retained as a “studio B” facility allowing us to potentially double our output with pre-recorded programming, and enable us to provide disability access to future volunteers and members of the community.”

Colm added; “The move is an investment which will enable us to deliver a significantly improved and more spacious environment for our volunteers to ensure we continue to attract the highest calibre talent we need to fulfill our ambitious goal, which is to be fully embraced by the community at large in the greater Lisburn area.”

“Our slogan is ‘Your Station, Your Voice’, and that couldn’t be a more accurate reflection of what the station is about.”

www.lisburns98fm.com

Lisburn 98FM presenters enjoying the offical launch of their new station premises.