Plymouth to have new radio network

Local group to apply to run it

Plymouth, the South Hams and South East Cornwall could get around 25 new digital radio stations if a plan by a consortium of local broadcasters comes to fruition.

Broadcast regulator Ofcom is looking for an operator for what it calls ‘small-scale DAB digital radio’ – for Plymouth and the surrounding area.

It is expected to reach about 290,000 people when it goes on air, probably in 2024, and could reach Tavistock, Gunnislake, Newton Ferrers and Yealmpton. 

A local group that includes Hospital Radio Plymouth, Devon’s Radio Exe, Clear Sky Publishing and Phonic FM is making plans to apply for the licence to run the network and is inviting people who are interested in setting up radio stations when it launches to get in touch.

Radio Exe and Phonic FM are also behind a similar network in Exeter that is due to go live in the coming months, with a line-up of about eight radio stations. If successful, it means that stations such as Hospital Radio Plymouth will be available on DAB digital radio for the first time, and Radio Exe will launch a dedicated service for the city. 

PlymDAB will reserve five channels for digital community stations who will pay reduced transmission fees. Ofcom has already opened its application process for groups who want to launch such stations and is expected to choose who will run the network in spring next year. 

Hospital Radio Plymouth’s Richard Hargrave said: “In future, our city’s events can be covered by pop-up radio stations along with businesses, sports clubs or individuals who wish to set up a radio station in Plymouth. 

“These stations will provide the best in local and will be able to do so in digital quality at a relatively low cost,  and of course reach a large audience. We’ll have a range of stations focused specifically on our local communities in the area, so if you’re interested in joining us, please get in touch.” 

Anyone interested in launching a radio station on the network should email enquiries@plydab.com. It is a requirement that stations must hold, or apply for, appropriate Ofcom licences.

The area that could be covered by Plymouth's forthcoming DAB radio network (image courtesy: Ofcon/Crown/OS)