Nation to offer free DAB+ slots for community radio

Nation Broadcasting is planning to offer a free place for community radio stations on any future small scale multiplexes it might own.

The company is planning to apply for a number of licences when they start being advertised later this year.

It is also offering a service to provide multiplex management and technical services to those wanting to operate their own multiplex.

Nation Broadcasting’s DAB Platform Manager Ash Elford tells RadioToday: “Under our stewardship, we’ve already seen the transformation of the Glasgow small scale DAB multiplex, and we want to replicate that success throughout the sector.

“We’re at the forefront of local DAB digital radio and have a great track record of getting community radio service and small commercial services on to the platform. Our reputation speaks for itself, and we look forward to helping as many smaller community stations transition to DAB as we know that this is a sector where every penny counts, particularly given the current UK national emergency situation.”

Alex Jenkins, Chairman of Celtic Music Radio, says “Since Nation Broadcasting started operating the Glasgow small scale DAB multiplex in autumn 2018 they have shown a huge commitment to community radio stations like ours. We are looking forward to being on Nation’s application to operate the Glasgow small scale DAB multiplex this autumn.”

Bob McWilliam, director of Paisley FM 107.5 commented: “Everyone at Paisley FM is delighted that Nation Broadcasting will be applying to Ofcom to operate the Glasgow DAB digital radio multiplex on a full licence basis. We have been delighted by the service provided by Nation Broadcasting to date which brings Paisley FM an incremental audience and a service to the people that travel between Paisley and Glasgow on the M8 every day.”

All licenced Ofcom community radio stations and small, independent commercial stations are encouraged to contact ash.elford@nationbroadcasting.com to register their interest and discuss how they can benefit from the offer.