Northampton councillor says ‘independent local radio is more important than ever’ and issues plea to help fund community station
A Northampton councillor has called on supporters to help NLive as its funding comes to an end.
Labour group leader, Cllr Sally Keeble, hopes the station can continue if it receives further funding.
It comes after the University of Northampton announced it could no longer fund the station after supporting it through a subsidiary company for more than 10 years.
The station, which describes itself as ‘the station that loves Northampton’ is appealing to listeners, businesses and community organisations for help securing its future.
Cllr Keeble said: “In a society where big money and tech bros dominate the media, independent local radio is more important than ever. That’s why the continued success of NLive Radio is so important.
“Democracy doesn’t begin and end with elections. It also involves the constant scrutiny of politicians and debate of ideas. NLive Radio has provided a key forum for this. It’s played a big role in our local democracy. It’s entertained us, and by championing community events has provided a platform for local people.
“It’s sad that the university has had to step back as the primary funder – now is the time for others to come forward. NLive Radio has just had its licence extended. With a new structure and diversified funding it should be able to continue its role as a voice for our community.”
The university pulled its funding due to financial pressures and changes across the higher education sector.
After a review of its expenditure, it said there was a need to prioritise spending on educational delivery and the student experience.
The university has agreed to support NLive Radio’s transition to continue independently.
NLive says its fundraising campaign will cover the costs of establishing the station under its new structure, including new premises, moving equipment, broadcasting licenses, upgrading technology and essential operating costs.
The station – which has a licence until 2031 - is seeking both one-off donations and monthly contributions, and calling on businesses to advertise.
Station manager Rebecca Steers, who has led NLive Radio for more than seven years, said: "We've been at the heart of local communities. Not only promoting local charities, celebrating local achievements, supporting community events and playing local musicians; but we've also given hundreds of people the opportunity to get involved in broadcasting and journalism.
"Now we need Northampton's help. We're asking listeners, businesses and organisations across the town to stand with us and help secure the future of truly local radio.
"Whether it's a donation, an advertising campaign, volunteering your time or simply spreading the word, every bit of support matters.”
NLive Radio was established in 2016 as a joint project between the university and local community and currently reaches more than 17,000 regular listeners.
All of its presenters are volunteers and the station expects to eventually become fully volunteer-run. It is now recruiting people to help with fundraising and operations, produce content and present programmes.
Visit www.nliveradio.com/loveus to support the fundraising campaign.