Funding boost helps Avondale Radio ride the airwaves with DAB+ expansion

A community radio station can now reach thousands more listeners across South Lanarkshire after securing wind farm funding to bring its broadcasts to DAB+ radio. 

Avondale Radio received £27,280 through the Kype Muir Community Partnership (KMCP) utilising funds from Kype Muir Wind Farm, owned by renewable energy developer OnPath Energy.

The money has been used to install a new transmitter and antenna at the Strathaven Hotel as well as upgrading the equipment used by its volunteer presenters, including microphones, headphones, mixing desks, sound proofing and training equipment.  

The investment will allow people across Strathaven and Glassford, Stonehouse, Lesmahagow, Sandford and Upper Avondale to tune into the station using a DAB or car radio, opening the service to people who may not have access to internet radio. The project is expected to benefit around 18,000 people across the five community council areas. 

Avondale Radio has operated as an internet radio station since 2022 and became a registered charity in 2023. It was established to give local people the opportunity to get involved in broadcasting while providing a platform for community groups, charities and organisations. 

It works with local schools and colleges to offer broadcasting training and opportunities for young people to produce their own programmes. The station also works with Kilbryde Hospice on a monthly programme highlighting its services and regularly broadcasts from community events, galas and festivals. 

Feedback from local people helped drive the decision to pursue DAB+ broadcasting, with the station hearing from residents who wanted to listen but were unable to access its existing internet service. 

Kenny Quigley started Avondale Radio just after Covid. 65 people now volunteer for the station, just under 50 of them presenters.  

“Community radio gives a voice to a community,” said Kenny. “We pride ourselves in giving a platform to new and existing local artists, and we had the Balloon Festival earlier this month where we ran three stages. We offer a complete training package to all our volunteers, teaching them artist liaison and live broadcasting skills.  

“However, we are also a conduit for the community when major issues have cropped up. We have programmes about mental health and programmes aimed at people looking to start a business and we get involved in all the local events within our area. 

“Every time we have approached OnPath, they have never let us down. They have listened to us and been so supportive of what we have done, so we’re really grateful for that.” 

Kenny Quigley, Avondale Radio

Aileen McCreadie, community and partnerships manager at OnPath Energy, said:

“Avondale Radio is a fantastic example of a community organisation that brings people together and provides a platform for local voices. At OnPath Energy, we want the benefits generated by our renewable energy projects to create lasting value in the communities that host them.

“For many people, Avondale Radio is a real lifeline, keeping them connected to local news, events and activities while fostering a strong sense of belonging. We’re delighted to support its expansion and help extend its reach across the community.”

Avondale Radio plans to measure the impact of the expansion by comparing listening figures during the six months before and after DAB+ broadcasting began. It will also gather feedback through its social media channels and at community events.

Aileen McMann, interim chair of the KMCP, said:

“Since 2022 Avondale Radio has provided a great service for the area, giving local people a voice and supporting vulnerable people and community groups. 

“The Kype Muir Fund has proudly supported the station with numerous awards, including this latest grant to upgrade to DAB. Hopefully, the money will improve the listening experience of current users as well as attracting new listeners from across the area.”