Station history.
Oxide Radio was founded in 2001 following the demise of the previous student radio station, Oxygen FM. Broadcasting from 1997 to 2001, Oxygen FM was Oxford University’s student radio station which broadcast for four weeks twice a year on FM, as well as an internet stream. Oxygen’s closure came about as a result of a failure to abide by Ofcom broadcast regulations, which led to a record fine of £20,000 and a shortening of the broadcast license.
Given the expiry of Oxygen FM’s license and the subsequent dissolution of the station, Oxide Radio was set up in 2001 under the name Oxford Student Radio, before rebranding as Altered Radio in 2003. Initially broadcasting from an office in Little Clarendon Street, Oxford, the station transferred ownership to OSSL (Oxford Student Services Limited, the financial arm of the University’s Student Union), and was accommodated in the student union buildings in 2002.
A second rebranding to Oxide Radio was followed shortly by crisis. In significant financial difficulties during 2006, OUSU cut Oxide’s £5,700 per year budget completely and presenters were forced to pay membership dues to keep the station afloat. In addition, Oxide acquired sponsorship from Shirtworks, a local clothing supplier.
In 2008, Oxide is planning to broadcast on the AM frequency, and initiate public interest in the station.
