Ashford DAB announces small-scale bid

Ashford DAB Limited, a joint venture between Radio Ashford Ltd, Nation Broadcasting Ltd and Kent Capacity Co Ltd, has announced its plan to apply for the small-scale DAB licence for the Ashford & Dungeness area of Kent.

Richard Collins, Director of Radio Ashford, said: “Radio Ashford is the community radio station for Ashford and the surrounding area, broadcasting on 107.1FM since 2011.

"Throughout those twelve successful years on-air the local media landscape has changed dramatically, however Radio Ashford has grown from strength to strength with audiences enjoying local Ashford people broadcasting daily from the town direct to local listeners. No one knows Ashford like we know Ashford!

"We love local and we’re proud of our trusted role, keeping communities updated with key information for the area, as well as supporting and promoting local good causes, voluntary organisations, civic and social services.

"We’re looking forward to bringing local voices and local topics to DAB digital radio sets across the region, as well as being able to better serve communities and businesses in neighbouring Tenterden and across the Romney Marsh.

"Bringing small-scale DAB to the Ashford area is an exciting opportunity that will allow us to further develop our service and, working with our partners, enhance the choice of radio services available in the area. Radio has been an important part of local life for many years, and our bid will help ensure that radio remains a strong local friend for many years to come".

Jason Bryant, Director of Nation Broadcasting, said: "With existing business interests outside of radio in and around the Ashford area, we are looking forward to working with our application partners to deliver a wide range of popular audio services for this great part of Kent".

Gregory Watson, Director of Kent Capacity Co, said: "We are excited to be working with Radio Ashford and Nation Broadcasting to bring small scale DAB to Ashford & Dungeness. Our experience through MuxCo of building and operating local multiplexes, working with local partners, has been unique in the UK - helping small operators to become part of the DAB family and enabling many small radio stations to broadcast".

Ashford DAB welcomes any broadcasters, established or new, wishing to be part of their exciting bid to register their interest via email to: Richard@radioashford.com.

Ashford DAB will be submitting its application to Ofcom before the closing date of 30 June 2023.