Maxxwave takes over High Peak small scale DAB multiplex

Maxxwave has stepped in to keep the High Peak small-scale DAB multiplex on air after financial pressures put its future at risk.

The company has taken over operation from High Peak One Digital Ltd, bringing new infrastructure and long-term plans to stabilise and expand coverage across Glossop, Buxton and surrounding areas.

The multiplex had been struggling in a challenging rural landscape, where mountainous terrain requires multiple transmission sites and increases operating costs. Expectations that early small-scale DAB licences would quickly fill with services have not been met in this area.

Maxxwave says its existing transmission sites and lower-cost approach to network design will allow it to improve viability. The company already operates infrastructure at high elevation points and plans to use additional low-power transmitters to strengthen coverage in key towns.

The move comes as concerns grow about limited radio choice across the Peak District. Some areas receive no national or local DAB services, and with BBC Radio 4 LW closing later this year, gaps in access are expected to widen.

Samuel Hunt, Director of Maxxwave Ltd, said: “With Radio 4 long wave now confirmed to be closing, some parts of the Peak District are about to lose their only reliable radio service. These are the areas that we are keen to expand to and help.

“The Peak District receives 13 million visitors a year, yet it’s been left behind by digital radio. We’re determined to change that.”

Craig Pattison from High Peak One Digital added: Having won the licence in round two, it’s been a privilege to offer extra DAB Services across the High Peak, an area that until I was granted the licence has had very little in DAB Radio coverage.

Maxxwave will now take this to a whole new level with new services already appearing on the multiplex. Which will add a greater listener experience in the High Peak.”