OUTREACH EXTRA – The Truly Local Sound of Young Hampshire

Outreach Radio Celebrates Official Launch of New Studio at The Hilt

2 min read

Chandlers Ford, Hampshire – 17th February 2026

Outreach Radio officially opened its brand-new radio studio on Tuesday evening at The Hilt in Chandlers Ford, marking a major milestone in the station’s continued growth and commitment to local broadcasting.

The celebratory launch event brought together presenters, volunteers, supporters, charity partners and members of the local community to recognise the station’s impact and share plans for the future.

Official Ribbon Cutting

The ribbon was officially cut by the Mayor of Eastleigh, formally opening the new Outreach Radio studio. The Mayor of Romsey and the Mayoress of Eastleigh attended as honoured guests, alongside local councillors and representatives from charities the station proudly supports.

A Studio Built for Community Impact

The new studio at The Hilt has been designed as a dynamic outreach and broadcast space. It enhances the station’s technical capabilities while creating new opportunities for:

  • Community engagement
  • Skills development
  • Youth training and mentoring
  • Charity and voluntary sector collaboration

During the evening, guests heard about Outreach Radio’s journey so far, its ambitions for future programming, and its continued mission to amplify local voices across Hampshire.

“This launch represents so much more than a new studio,” said a station spokesperson. “It’s about strengthening our connection with the community, expanding opportunities for young people, and continuing to champion the charities and causes that matter most locally.”

Recent Growth and Expansion

Founder and Managing Director Osman Sen-Chadun highlighted several major developments that signal a new phase of growth for the station:

  • Expanded coverage on 102.5 FM
  • The launch of Outreach Gold, a dedicated classic hits station on DAB+ and 1557 AM — with its transmitter switched on the day before the event and its official launch set for Friday 6th March
  • The introduction of Outreach Extra, a new station focused on training and supporting young people, also broadcasting on DAB+

Outreach Radio has also recently been awarded funding through the Ofcom Community Radio Fund. This grant supports the core operational costs of community radio stations across the UK and will help ensure Outreach Radio can continue delivering high-quality local programming, training opportunities and meaningful outreach initiatives.

Strong Community Partnerships

Among those in attendance were representatives connected to:

  • Eastleigh Borough Council
  • Romsey Town Council
  • Southampton City Council
  • Friends of PICU
  • Romsey Beggars Fair
  • Unity 101 FM

The evening reflected the powerful role local radio continues to play in bringing people together. Guests shared heartfelt messages of encouragement and appreciation for the presenters and volunteers who dedicate their time each week to serving the community.

Looking Ahead

With its new studio now officially open, Outreach Radio looks forward to expanding its reach, deepening partnerships and inspiring the next generation of broadcasters across Hampshire.

The team extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and supported this special milestone event.