Wimborne Minster’s volunteer-run community radio station faces an uncertain future after being told by Dorset Council that it must vacate its studio premises.
On 26th March, the not-for-profit Radio Wimborne was told by its landlord that the building was required for a youth project. While the radio station supports initiatives for young people, it is concerned that no detailed plans or confirmation of funding for the proposed use have been published.
The initial notice gave the station just two weeks to leave. Following vocal and widespread public support on social media – and with supporters out in force to attend a Wimborne Minster Town Council meeting on 31st March – Dorset Council has granted a three-month extension. This allows the station, which broadcasts 24 hours a day, to continue broadcasting from its base at Allenview Hub until the end of June, while it searches for a new home.
Jan Britten, Dorset Council’s Executive Director for Place, publicly apologised for the short notice, describing it as ‘premature’ and stressing that the council had no intention of making the station ‘homeless’.
The council has explained that although Radio Wimborne’s licence to occupy (Tenancy at Will) does not require the council to provide notice, it has agreed a three-month extension ‘to support an orderly move to suitable alternative accommodation.’
While welcoming the extension, the station has warned that a 12-week timeframe still presents significant challenges. Its broadcasting licence depends on access to suitable studio facilities, adding further pressure to secure appropriate accommodation within a short period.
A vital ingredient
Founded in 2004 by local businessman Malcolm Angel, Radio Wimborne began as an online station before expanding to FM and later DAB, extending its reach across north Poole to the Purbeck area.
‘Only this week, the Culture Secretary announced increased support for local radio,’ said Mr Angel. ‘The council’s steps to evict Radio Wimborne seem totally at odds with government policy.’
Beyond its daily programming, Radio Wimborne plays a central role in the town’s cultural life. It provides a platform for local musicians, including live sessions showcasing emerging artists, and regularly supports community events with outside broadcasts and technical expertise.
The station also works closely with local schools, offering work experience placements, including opportunities for students with special educational needs. Charities and community groups are supported through free Community Information Messages recorded and broadcast throughout the week.
Local organisations, including Planet Wimborne, are supporting the radio station. Trustee Dr Neil Smith says: ‘We were shocked to hear Radio Wimborne might go off air. Over the past few years we have teamed up with Radio Wimborne to help us engage with local people about what we do and they have supported our annual Green Festivals. As keen supporters, we hope a successful solution can be found to keep them on air and promoting the town.’
Wimborne Drama’s chairman Gary Paine says: ‘It’s a vital ingredient in the make-up of the town. A huge hole would be left if Radio Wimborne was forced to vacate, especially with Wimborne celebrating its Town of Culture year.’
Tammy Sleet, manager of Wimborne BID, described the station as a key partner: ‘They help publicise our events, provide outside broadcasts and showcase local businesses on air. We’ve recently worked with them to give Wimborne businesses a regular on-air voice. Losing Radio Wimborne would be a huge blow to the town.’
Requests ignored?
Dorset Council has linked the eviction to plans to refurbish the building for future youth provision. Since its opening, Radio Wimborne has been run from a small building in the West Car Park, behind the Allendale Centre, both of which are owned by Dorset Council. A youth cafe was set up at the Allendale Centre in 2019, but closed after only four months due to the lack of both volunteers and funding. Dorset Council’s sell-off of youth facilities across the county included a former youth café in Church Street, Wimborne, and funding was withdrawn from QE Leisure Centre. Radio Wimborne denies claims that it was informed last year by Dorset Council that the radio station building would be required for other uses. The station’s directors say that their application to Dorset Council for a Community Asset Transfer, along with a request to establish costs to purchase the building, has been ignored.In a statement, Dorset Council said it ‘recognises the valued contribution Radio Wimborne has made to the community’ and would ‘continue to engage with the station to support a smooth transition.’ In the mean time, Radio Wimborne says it will focus on securing a suitable new base and continuing its service to the local community.
