COMMUNITY radio station West Kent Radio (WKR) has joined a consortium that will enable it to transmit on digital audio broadcasting (DAB) radio alongside its FM and online transmissions.
Communications regulator Ofcom is currently accepting bids across the country for small-scale DAB (SS-DAB) licences.
The move will increase the access of regional and community stations to the airwaves, as each SS-DAB ‘multiplex’ licence contains a number of ‘channels’.
Digital transmission also allows for better monitoring of listener figures than FM broadcast.
WKR trustee Dominic Cole said: “SS-DAB will provide both an increase in listening choices, as well as an increase in our signal coverage. This will enable more local people to benefit from the news, information and entertainment that affects their neighbourhood.”
He added: “West Kent Radio is excited to be part of the consortium with Kent Capacity Co and MuxCom to bring small-scale DAB services into Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone and the surrounding areas.”
Meanwhile, WKR is also continuing to upgrade its FM transmission and has received planning permission for a new transmitter based in Tonbridge.
WKR is available on FM at 95.5 and 106.7, online at westkentradio.co.uk/player and on smart speakers.
