BBC Radio Wales to get FM coverage boost

BBC Radio Wales will be available across 91% of Wales, thanks to a major boost to its FM signal next week and taking some frequencies from Radio 3.

The national station currently reaches 79% of households in Wales, with listeners in North East and Mid Wales set to benefit most from the expansion.

The changes will be achieved by using a small number of existing FM frequencies currently allocated to BBC Radio 3. Radio 3 will continue to be available to 92% of households in Wales on FM as well as its existing availability on DAB radio, television and online.

Areas set to benefit from the boost to Radio Wales on FM include Welshpool, Llandrindod Wells, Ruthin, Brecon and the A55 and A470 road networks. In total, more than 550 miles of road in Wales will be covered for the first time. Work has been ongoing on over 30 transmitters to ensure minimum disruption to radio listeners.

Editor of BBC Radio Wales, Colin Paterson says: “As we approach our fortieth birthday celebrations next month, this exciting development is set to benefit BBC Radio Wales listeners in many parts of Wales and make it a national service in every sense. We know that in the past some Radio Wales listeners have been frustrated by FM blackspots. These changes mean if you’re at home or in the car, more listeners than ever can tune in to enjoy the unique mix of entertainment, music and sport Radio Wales has to offer.”

This year, Radio Wales celebrates its 40th anniversary. Its year-long celebration will include a birthday bus tour with special programmes and a variety show at the Swansea Grand Theatre.