ExeDAB to apply to run East Devon small scale DAB muliplex

ExeDAB, which runs the existing Exeter digital service, is planning to apply for the East Devon small scale DAB licence.

East Devon is in the next round of areas to be covered by small scale DAB and will cover a mainly rural area of around 136,000 adults.

ExeDAB chair Dr David Treharne, who also leads Phonic FM, said: “These new digital networks increase listener choice in specific areas and allow new entrants to launch radio stations at a modest cost. In Exeter, it has enabled community stations like Phonic and South Devon Radio to extend their reach, something that was previously unaffordable.

“The recently launched speech station from Radio Exe, Devoncast Radio, is the county’s only non-stop speech service, and it is only because of small-scale DAB that a station like this has become possible.

“We’re now welcoming enquires from anyone who wants to broadcast a digital station in East Devon to get in touch and register their interest.”

Sidmouth community station, Sid Valley Radio is joining ExeDAB which means it will be able to reach a much larger audience on the East Devon network when it launches.

Chair Bob Weeks said: “For many years, there has been no opportunity for new community stations to broadcast in East Devon. Ofcom’s announcement will change that. We’re excited to have become part of the ExeDAB consortium, and we hope other community organisations will join the line-up too.”