A Hub of Local News and Diverse Music, Powered by the University of Sunderland
Spark Sunderland stands as one of the UK’s most celebrated community media initiatives. Licensed by Ofcom and supported by the University of Sunderland, it serves Sunderland and the wider North East with a mix of local news, Community Talk, and diverse music. Multiple awards, including Best Station at the Student Radio Awards, reinforce its authority as a trusted local broadcaster.
Community Expertise: Spark specializes in Community Talk, delivering hyper-local news and discussions that matter to Sunderland residents and university students.
Music Variety: The station features Chart Hits and Pop during the day, and specialist evening shows covering Indie, Dance, R&B, and Afrobeats, making its music offering rich and varied.
Student Talent: Run primarily by students, Spark provides valuable training and experience, making it a key player in the Student Talk landscape.
Audio Authority: University of Sunderland / Ofcom Licensed
Launch Date: 2009 (Evolved from Radio Utopia, 1997)
Official Website: Sparksunderland.com
Office Phone: 0191 515 3875 (Verified Local Contact)
Postal Address: David Puttnam Media Centre, Sunderland SR6 0DD
Q1: What is Spark Sunderland’s main focus?
A: While its license covers Sunderland, Spark serves the entire North East, offering local news, events, and community discussions.
Q2: Is Spark Sunderland a professional station?
A: Yes. The station is Ofcom licensed, runs from industry-standard studios, and has won national awards for production quality.
Q3: Does it only play student music?
A: No. It features a wide mix of Pop and Chart music during the day, with niche evening shows for specialized audiences.
Spark Sunderland exemplifies community broadcasting done right. With strong university support and multiple national awards, it is a trusted, authoritative local voice. Featuring Spark strengthens HTPLAY’s regional expertise in Community Talk and UK media.
Editorial Team: Prepared by the HTPLAY Editorial Team, experts in North East UK media and local broadcasting.
Authority Reference: For official licensing and award verification, visit the Spark Sunderland Official Site.
