TFM Radio’s former Teesside base has been opened as student accommodation in time for the new university term.
Radio House in Thornaby has remained out of use since the station controversially merged with Newcastle-based Metro Radio in 2013.
But now the three-storey office and studio building in Yale Crescent has been transformed into a plush 30-bed living space equipped with en suites, smart TVs and super-sized rooms.
“We are over the moon with the development,” said Mark Sadler, Kexgill branch manager, who added that the student residents to come have been snapping up the rooms, with many paying just £104 a week for a standard bedroom with en suite.
“We wanted this building purely for its location. It’s on the gateway to Teesdale and there’s a lot of student foot traffic. The halls for the university are directly over the road so we are in an ideal spot for second year students.”
Radio House in Thornaby has remained out of use since the radio station controversially merged with Newcastle-based Metro Radio in 2013.
Catering for over 2,700 students, Kexgill is one of the largest privately-owned student accommodation companies in the UK.
Over the past 30 years, has expanded into eight other university cities and towns across Britain.
The site offers students stylish fully furnished bedrooms each having a small double bed, storage and en-suites. Each communal area is fitted with a 50 inch smart TV.
And the colours throughout are fresh and light with touches of bold green and purple on exterior walls.
“We wanted to keep it fresh, youthful and fun, but everything has been finished off to the absolute best quality.
“Each room is all inclusive of gas, electric, water, Internet and we have provided washers and dryers in each communal area.
“Having the celebrity connection of the old studio has really attracted the students, it’s a cool spot to live in.”
A campaign was launched urging station owner Bauer Media to reconsider its decision to broadcast from Newcastle.
TFM evolved from the old Radio Tees - which began broadcasting from Dovecot Street, Stockton, in 1975.
A total of 22 members of TFM staff moved to Metro Radio in Pilgrim Street, Newcastle, under the switch.
Despite complaints, media watchdog Ofcom said the move did not breach broadcasting regulations.
