OXFORD’S first permanent community radio station will hit the airwaves after five years of static.

OX4 FM, based in Blackbird Leys, has been searching for a permanent home after its successful pilot back in 2006.

The station, that will provide a mix of music and community news, looked set to take off after receiving a five-year licence from Ofcom in 2009 and a £13,000 grant from Oxford City Council.

But negotiations over studio space at Blackbird Leys Community Centre took longer than expected.

Now they are complete and it is hoped OX4 FM, renamed OX4 U, will take to the airwaves early next year.

Chairman Geno Humphrey, a former BBC Oxford presenter and producer, said: “This has been a five- year long slog, ever since we started. But it’s great, great news. As soon as the studio is built, we’ll be there 24 hours a day for the community just like other radio stations.”

The new studio is at the back of the community centre in Blackbird Leys Road.

The space is currently empty but will soon contain a studio, technology room, waiting lounge, office and toilets.

Work will be carried out over the next six weeks and volunteers are currently being trained to take on their new roles.

Mr Humphrey said: “We have got a brilliant team on board, everyone can’t wait to get started now.

“We are going to cater for as many people as possible, so we want people over 65 to get involved, children and teenagers.

“It’s going to be for everyone in the community, made by people from the community.”

The station first went live in a ten-day pilot in 2006 from Jubilee Hall, followed by two more one-off broadcasts.

It aims to provide permanent round-the-clock music and entertainment, as well as a venue for the community to discuss issues and provide information.

Programme manager Scott Cridland-Smith said: “The team were involved with some one-off broadcasts, but it is a different proposition altogether to run a permanent station.”

Dan Gill, who will be hosting the drivetime show, said: “I have always been interested in music, so when this opportunity came along, it was perfect.”

The station will broadcast on 105.1fm across south and east Oxford and a website will be set up nearer the time.

It aims to become financially self-sustaining with help from local businesses.

If you would like to get involved with the station call Mr Humphrey on 07775 435286.