The company is exploring options before Ofcom announces the timetable for the process of awarding the licence to operate the multiplex. Planned for switch-on in 2007, the multiplex could carry up to 10 commercial digital stations.
Channel 4 made its first venture into radio in April by buying a 51% controlling share in national digital speech station Oneword for £1m. Its partner in Oneword, UBC Media, said that it was in discussions with Channel 4 about the multiplex.
Emap is one of the operators believed to be linked with the broadcaster. Its digital radio interests are extensive, including 13 local and regional DAB multiplexes and 10 stations on Freeview, including Kerrang! and Magic. However, it lacks a national DAB footprint and has stated its intention to bid for the licence if advertised.
An Emap spokeswoman said that the company was exploring its options but offered no comment on any talks with Channel 4. Channel 4 offered no comment on reports linking it with Emap.
The start of the licence process has been overshadowed by the possibility of legal resistance from GCap, a shareholder in the sole national digital radio multiplex, Digital One.
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