Perthshire broadcaster to close after three decades

Financial climate seals fate

A long-running Perthshire radio station is to close after 34 years.

Heartland FM announced to listeners today (20th July) that it is to shut its doors after failing to find a feasible business model.

The loss of a dedicated broadcast station for Perthshire will be a blow to many, with the station moving from Pitlochry to Crieff in April 2024.

Merging with community station, Radio Earn, Heartland FM was taken over by Creative Crieff in a move designed to try to secure its long-term future.

Prior to the arrangement, the station had been forced to scale down its service due to rising costs and the impacts of Covid 19.

However, the enlarged station has found the climate challenging and is to cease operating – a move which will sadden loyal listeners.

Hard choice

Officials described the decision as ‘incredibly difficult’.

“The decision comes after a long journey of trying to find a feasible business model for the station, but due to the current financial climate and the increasing challenge of maintaining a sustainable future for the station, we are no longer able to continue operating.”

Trustees said the station had been a community as much as a broadcaster.

“Heartland FM has always been more than just radio. It has been a community, a platform for local voices, a source of local news and information, and a place where friendships and connections have been built.

“None of this would have been possible without you – our loyal listeners.”