Barnsley Civic and local digital media powerhouse Essentials Media have joined forces to launch Barnsley Community Media – a brand new Community Interest Company (CIC) aiming to bring local voices back to the airwaves.
The new CIC has been formed to apply for the upcoming Small-Scale DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) multiplex licence, which will serve Barnsley and its surrounding areas. This move paves the way for the return of vibrant, community-led radio, filling a gap left since the closure of Barnsley’s only local radio station in 2020.
Led by local broadcasters Stephen Booth and Gareth Webb, who are both Barnsley residents and part of the Essentials Media team and local arts centre Barnsley Civic, the initiative is rooted in the town, with a mission to champion grassroots content, community engagement, and digital radio innovation for Barnsley and the wider South Yorkshire region.
Barnsley Community Media’s mission is simple: to reignite community spirit through the power of radio and give a platform to local voices, music, and stories that matter to the people of Barnsley. The multiplex will provide space for independent stations to broadcast in the borough, creating a dynamic new landscape for local media.
The CIC is currently seeking expressions of interest from groups, stations, and companies who would like to reserve a slot on the multiplex at launch. It’s also inviting potential consortium members to help lead the application for the broadcasting licence.
“We want to enable the digital landscape in Barnsley,” said Stephen of Essentials Media.
“Sheffield, Rotherham, and Doncaster already have successful multiplexes on air – Barnsley is the missing piece of the puzzle. Our goal is to build a high-quality multiplex that empowers local radio stations to reach listeners in Barnsley and work together across South Yorkshire as a connected regional network.
As part of this, we’re launching a brand-new community station for Barnsley – a platform built by and for local people. We’ve got an exciting roadmap ahead, shaped around grassroots voices, creative collaboration, and digital innovation that reflects Barnsley’s unique identity.”
Dan Winder, CEO of Barnsley Civic, added: “When Essentials Media came to us with this idea, we jumped at the chance. At Barnsley Civic, we’re passionate about breaking down barriers and amplifying local voices. A local multiplex gives us an amazing new way to do just that – reaching thousands of people at home, at work, or in the car. It’s an exciting step forward for our community engagement.”
Broadcasters and potential partners interested in finding out more or joining the consortium can contact BarnsleyDAB@barnsleycommunity.media.
