Ofcom has awarded small-scale DAB multiplex licences for five new areas across the UK, further expanding access to digital radio for local and community broadcasters.
The new multiplexes will serve Lancaster, North Somerset, Oban, Taunton, and West Oxfordshire, allowing a greater range of local, commercial, and specialist music stations to reach listeners on DAB digital radio.
Each area had just one applicant, so the awards go to:
• North Lancashire DAB Limited for Lancaster
• Bath Digital Radio for North Somerset
• Caledonia TX Limited for Oban
• Taunton DAB Limited for Taunton
• WOXDAB for West Oxfordshire
In total, 79 small-scale multiplexes are now on air across the UK, with more than 100 expected to launch under the national rollout.
A spokesperson for Ofcom said the continued expansion of small-scale DAB is “enabling local communities and smaller broadcasters to share their voices on digital radio, adding new diversity and choice for listeners.”
This latest announcement follows a series of licence awards made throughout the year, and is part of the Round Seven areas.