A Hub of Local News, Diverse Music, and Community Talk Powered by the University of Sunderland 🎧
Spark Sunderland is one of the UK’s most celebrated community radio stations. Licensed by Ofcom and supported by the University of Sunderland, it serves Sunderland and the wider North East region, offering a unique mix of local news, diverse music, and community engagement. Its numerous accolades, including Best Station at the Student Radio Awards, underscore its authority as a trusted local broadcaster.
Community Expertise: Spark specializes in Community Talk, providing hyper-local news and addressing issues important to Sunderland residents and students, making it a valuable source of regional knowledge.
Music Variety: The station delivers a broad music spectrum — from Chart Hits and Pop during the day to Indie, Dance, R&B, and Afrobeats in the evening, strengthening HTPLAY’s music offering.
Student Talent: Run primarily by students, Spark offers hands-on experience in broadcasting, positioning itself as a leader in Student Talk and training.
Audio Authority: University of Sunderland / Ofcom Licensed
Launch Date: 2009 (Evolved from Radio Utopia, 1997)
Official Website: Sparksunderland.com
Office Phone: 0191 515 3875
Postal Address: David Puttnam Media Centre, Sunderland SR6 0DD
Q1: What is Spark Sunderland’s main focus?
A: The station serves Sunderland and the wider North East with local news, events, and community features.
Q2: Is Spark Sunderland a professional station?
A: Yes. It is Ofcom licensed, operates from industry-standard studios, and has won multiple national awards, reflecting high production standards.
Q3: Does the station only play student music?
A: No. Spark plays a mix of Pop Hits and Chart music during the day for the whole city, while offering specialist niche music shows in the evenings.
Spark Sunderland is a prime example of community broadcasting done right. Its university backing and award-winning programming make it a trusted and engaging local voice, solidifying HTPLAY’s expertise in Community Talk and UK media.
🖋️ Prepared by: HTPLAY Editorial Team — experts in North East UK media and local broadcasting
🔗 Authority Reference: For official licensing and awards, visit the Spark Sunderland Official Site
