Listeners on the Isle of Wight will gain access to more local radio stations as a new small-scale DAB multiplex begins rollout from 18th April.
The service from Wight Digital Radio is expected to reach around 80% of the island’s population at launch, with plans to expand coverage further as additional funding becomes available over time.
Wight Digital Radio is a Community Interest Company formed through a partnership between Isle of Wight Radio and Vectis Radio, aiming to support the long-term future of local broadcasting.
Eight stations will be available initially, covering community, specialist and commercial output. These include Isle of Wight Radio, Isle of Wight Radio Retro, Vectis Radio, Angel Isle of Wight, Outreach Radio, Swinging 60’s, Our Island Radio and Heritage Chart Radio.
Kelvin Currie from Vectis Radio said: “It’s great that we will be able to secure the digital future of some existing local stations and increase listener choice with some new stations.”
Claire John, Managing Director of Isle of Wight Radio, said: “We are delighted to have been a major funder for the multiplex which will benefit both our station and others. We hope to raise further funding to cover the whole of the island in due course.”
Wight Digital Radio is also inviting further services to join. Find out more by visiting wightdigitalradio.co.uk.