Community station West Kent Radio has applied to extend its FM coverage to include the town of Sevenoaks.
The application has been published by Ofcom and is now open for consultation.
West Kent Radio is currently licenced to serve Tonbridge, Southborough and Tunbridge Wells, to the south of Sevenoaks, on three FM frequencies.
In support of the application, Sevenoaks MP Laura Trott said she believed the extension would help address the gap in local broadcasting. “I know that for many residents – particularly older people and those who are less digitally connected – it is incredibly important to have access to trusted, relevant and timely local news and traditional FM radio,” she said.
Laura added: “Sadly, the reduction in BBC local radio services and the decline of local print journalism has left a real gap in the provision of reliable, community-focused content. I firmly believe that West Kent Radio, which already provides high-quality, volunteer-led broadcasting in neighbouring areas, is well placed to fill that gap.”
West Kent Radio’s News Editor, Martin Webber, highlighted the support the station has built locally. He said: “West Kent Radio has been building a team with considerable experience in UK media to curate a truly informative and engaging service for our listeners.”
He added that the station has been able to offer a wide range of contributors through strong collaboration. “Thanks to the excellent cooperation from BBC Radio Kent, our partners at Sky and all our local councillors, MPs and local people who have engaged with us, we have access to a range of voices that is unique to our station.
“Sevenoaks is deeply integrated into our existing area and we are hopeful Ofcom will be able to agree to our coverage extension request.”
West Kent Radio launched in 2021. Its commitments under Ofcom include promoting healthy lifestyles, facilitating discussion and expression of opinion, and strengthening community links across its broadcast area.
This story first appeared on radiotoday.co.uk