Six more areas to get small-scale DAB multiplexes

Six new areas across the UK will gain small-scale DAB coverage, expanding capacity for local and specialist radio services.

The licences have been granted to Niocast Digital Limited for Chester, North Wiltshire DAB Limited for Chippenham and Malmesbury, NIDAB Limited for Coleraine, Kennet DAB Limited for Newbury, Maxxwave Limited for Telford and Shrewsbury, and Craoladh Digiteach Iondail Limited for Ullapool.

In Ullapool only one service was listed in the application as a prospective service, and it was assumed by the applicant that BBC Radio Scotland and Radio nan Gàidheal would lease capacity. Coverage proposals means only half of the adult population in the advertised licence area would be able to receive the service.

All the areas mentioned are part of Ofcom’s Round 8 for the small-scale DAB rollout, and each licence award followed assessment against set criteria, although there was only one applicant per area.

Ofcom says 105 small-scale multiplexes are already on air across the UK, supporting a growing number of hyperlocal digital stations serving audiences in all four nations.