FOLLOWING a successful move to broadcasting its programmes on DAB, Radio Warrington has decided to switch off its 1332AM medium wave transmissions.
Operating as the town’s only dedicated Ofcom-licenced community radio station since 2014, the move follows a nationwide trend for radio stations to focus on more accessible digital broadcast mediums.
Station manager Steve Lewis said: “After going online to provide a community radio service exclusively for Warrington in 2007, we sought an FM licence to better serve the people of the town. “However, as there was no room on the FM band, we were instead offered the 1332AM medium wave frequency in 2014. Although not ideal due its mono rather than stereo broadcasts, we accepted.
“Since then, the advent of Smart Speakers and Phone Apps has changed the way people listen to radio. Most new cars aren’t even fitted with AM receiving equipment so after moving to DAB which has undoubtedly increased our audience, we have decided to say goodbye to AM.”
“AM broadcasting is expensive, complicated and requires a large aerial and transmitter station. Radio Warrington needed approval from the town’s planning department and specialist certification before finally being given permission to build on land owned by United Utilities in Great Sankey. It took almost two years before the site was ready to transmit the station’s community-focused programming.
“In many ways we’re sad to see it go,” added Steve. “It will no doubt upset some radio enthusiasts in Scandinavia who often write to us to say they’ve been able to tune in to our 1332AM broadcasts. That said, Radio Warrington’s whole ethos is to provide a quality and informative radio service that is ‘from the town, for the town’ and that remains our focus. Our DAB, online, App and Smart Speaker services will ensure we do this for an increasing audience, hopefully for many years to come.”
About Radio Warrington
Radio Warrington’s studios are located upstairs in Warrington Market. The station features a broad mix of music, local news, history, arts, culture, business, and sport – including live Warrington Wolves match commentaries – and traffic updates. They also promote the work of local charities and other voluntary organisations and take their outside broadcast cube to events such as Disability Awareness Day, Warrington Walking Day and other community events.
Staffed and run by unpaid volunteers, the station gives training and broadcast opportunities to people looking to get involved with radio. The station’s move to DAB has seen an influx of enquiries from people wishing to get involved so expect to hear some new voices and programmes on air very soon.
To see the station’s full programming schedule visit radiowarrington.co.uk
the 1332 transmitter
