A CAMPAIGN to switch off plans for the move to digital radio in south Shropshire has won national backing.

Peter Phillips, Liberal Democrat councillor for Bishop’s Castle, has secured the backing of the Local Government Association in his campaign to get the Government to rethink its switchover to digital broadcasting for radio, especially as regards rural areas.

“I’m urging the Government not to confirm the 2015 switchover date from analogue to digital radio until proposals have been properly rural proofed,” said Coun Phillips.

“The proposed switchover will also have significant carbon footprint implications, as DAB radios consume more power than transistor sets.

“Waste authorities will be affected in having to dispose of analogue radio sets.”

Coun Phillips gave a presentation on the issue to the LGA board, which went on to discuss the issue.

Of particular interest to members were the disposal of old radios under Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment ( WEEE) regulations, the need to ensure coverage across all areas, the need to consider planning consent for certain properties to obtain the necessary satellite equipment for digital television and, in some cases, radio, and the dangers of illegal exploitation of customers during the switchover period.

The Local Government Association will now contact regulator Ofcom, industry body Digital UK and the Government to express its concerns.