Community radio stations across Northumberland are celebrating broadcasting to even more people after switching on a brand-new DAB transmitter.
A partnership of local community stations including Koast Radio, Lionheart Radio and Radio Northumberland have been helped by the AkzoNobel facility in Ashington. Their support has enabled the installation of DAB radio transmitters which have opened the airways to allow multiple radio stations to broadcast via the DAB network.
Since opening its flagship site in Ashington, South East Northumberland in 2017, AkzoNobel, famous for world leading brands such as Dulux and Cuprinol, has significantly contributed to the North East economy. This state-of-the-art manufacturing facility has created highly skilled jobs both within the plant and local supply chain and engaged with the local community through fundraising and awareness efforts.
The Ashington facility has set a precedent through charitable donations, fundraising, and collaboration with local businesses – going great lengths to ‘Add Colour To Peoples Lives’. To date, AkzoNobel has contributed over £300,000 to local organisations, donated over 7,000 litres of paint, and volunteered over 7,000 hours of staff time.
Now AkzoNobel, with Dulux Lets Colour are supporting the launch and transition of local DAB radio stations and are truly helping to paint a brighter future for the community.
Small-scale DAB is an innovative, cost-effective technology that enables local commercial, community, and specialist radio stations to broadcast on digital radio. Each Ofcom-licensed small-scale multiplex provides a platform for grassroots community services, niche music stations, and broadcasts tailored to minority groups and other under-served audiences, bringing greater diversity to the digital airwaves.
Richard Finch of Northumberland Community Digital, the organisation that manages the Northumberland network said:
“The support from AkzoNobel has been amazing. This will allow more people in Northumberland to connect with their local and national radio stations with better clarity and quality.
“We take great pride in being truly local, with presenters who live and work within the communities we serve. For the first time in Northumberland, we will be highlighting the voices of local people, bringing their stories and perspectives to the airwaves in crystal clear DAB.”
Becky Orton Dulux Marketing Manager said:
“We’re incredibly proud to support our local radio stations in their transition to DAB. This initiative not only strengthens our community ties but also ensures that the vibrant voices of Northumberland are heard loud and clear. Our commitment to local media reflects our dedication to the region surrounding our Ashington AkzoNobel manufacturing plant, fostering a sense of unity and progress.”
Anyone wanting to know more about setting up and running a radio station and taking carriage on the DAB service can get in touch via the website: www.northumberlandcommunitydigital.co.uk.