Ofcom to boost coverage of community radio stations

Ofcom will be boosting the broadcast coverage of some community radio stations.

The media regulator is giving broadcasters an opportunity to apply for an extension to their licensed coverage area. Up until now, community radio stations have a coverage area restriction of 5km radius.

Ofcom will examine frequency availability and interference as a part of its assessment after the deadline has passed.

In a document, it said, “Ofcom can authorise an extension to a licensed area into an adjoining area or locality only if: it would not result in a significant increase in the licensed area, or if Ofcom considers that the increase in the licensed area is justifiable in the exceptional circumstances of the case.”

The closing date for applications for improvements is 31st July 2018 and for extensions to existing licences coverage areas on 18th September 2018.