Following the report in October last year, Purbeck Coast FM has been struggling due to a lack of funding and practical pressures. Despite everyone’s best efforts it has not been possible to resolve these issues. The Swanage Pier Trust has therefore reluctantly taken the decision to close Purbeck Coast FM.
Swanage Pier Trust started the community radio project in 2017, to act as a hub for the local community, providing new opportunities for volunteers and a media training facility for young people.
Sadly the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis had a huge effect on the station’s day-to-day operating costs, as well as its inability to secure sponsorship from local businesses who are also feeling the effect.
Swanage Pier Trust are extremely grateful to our station manager and the incredible team of over 40 volunteers who have worked tirelessly on this project from the beginning, which has earned them recognition in 2 categories at the National Community Radio Awards.
Swanage Pier Trust Chief Executive, Ben Adeney said ‘as founder of the project, it is a great disappointment that we were unable to secure the support we needed for the station to continue’ he also added ‘we would like to thank all the volunteers, members of the public, local businesses and organisations for their support over the years.’
Purbeck Coast will continue to broadcast until Thursday 15th February 2024.