Statement: Small-scale DAB coverage change: Newcastle & Gateshead

Statement published 2 June 2025

The below statement sets out Ofcom’s decision on a request to change the area to be served by the Newcastle & Gateshead small-scale radio multiplex service. A radio multiplex service is the means by which DAB digital radio stations are broadcast.

Ofcom is required to consult before deciding whether to agree to such a request. We did so in a consultation that closed on 13 May 2025, and our decision takes account of consultation responses received.

We have decided to exercise our discretion under section 54A(2) of the Broadcasting Act 1996 (as modified by the Small-scale Radio Multiplex and Community Digital Radio Order 2019) to approve an application from Tyneside Community Digital C.I.C. to vary the small-scale radio multiplex licence for Newcastle & Gateshead so as to change the area within which the service is required to be available.