Radio Newquay edges closer but still needs your backing to ensure it hits the airwaves soon.
Newquay is a step closer to having its own full time radio station as OFCOM announces dates for handing out licences.
Following the recent announcement from the government radio regulator, the team behind Radio Newquay have until July 27, 2017 to submit a full application detailing their plans for the new community service dedicated to the town and surrounding villages.
Community radio stations are different from commercial radio and offer social cohesion and community benefits to the areas in which they broadcast. Radio Newquay will not have shareholders and be a not-for-profit initiative for the town and all about Newquay.
Station founder Mark Chapple says it’s an incredibly exciting time for the town – but time is running out to back the campaign.
He added: “We need to provide evidence to Ofcom that residents, community organisations, charities, schools, clubs and businesses are behind the station. We need your help to prove the need and desire for the station, so we’re asking people to get in touch with their letters of support.
“Our plan is to broadcast from the town with news, what’s on information, surf news and forecasts, water safety information for tourists and provide a free platform for local community organisations who want to publicise their event or activities on air.”
Radio Newquay is now appealing to all local businesses and clubs to send letters of support, explaining why they think a dedicated community radio service for Newquay is a good idea.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the response and enthusiasm so far after carrying out a series of presentations detailing our plans. We’ve already got lots of letters and promises of more to come,” Mark continued.
The team need the letters by the end of May so they can collate the information and support in preparation for the July deadline.
You can also contribute by completing the online, five minute survey which will help form the sound of the station. Mark said: “It’s an ideal opportunity to make suggestions for what you’d like to hear on your new radio station. Already we’ve had suggestions for specialist programmes and features, plus ideas on how we might cover surfing events around the town.”
The team behind Radio Newquay also want to feature live music through a weekly programme and specialist playlist dedicated to Newquay’s live music scene. If you would like to feature your music on the radio, now is the time to back the campaign. Please drop the team a letter of support and include details about your venue or band.
You can read more and take part in the survey at www.radionewquay.com or send letters to Radio Newquay c/o 18a Trethewey Way, Newquay, TR7 2AE
