The East Hampshire small-scale DAB multiplex has installed a third transmitter close to Alton, increasing the service's reach by 76% and bringing digital radio to a larger proportion of local residents. According to Ofcom, the network now covers 66,995 people, extending reception around Petersfield, Liphook, Alton and Bordon and along sections of the A3.
What the expansion delivers
The multiplex carries eleven services, among them Shine Radio from Petersfield, Wey Valley Radio from Alton, Radio Victory, V2 Radio, Angel Radio and Angel Gold. The Alton transmitter closes a gap between South Coast multiplexes and those covering London and Surrey, improving reception where Hampshire’s terrain has previously limited DAB signals.
"the addition of the Alton transmitter is a positive step for listeners, especially those of Wey Valley Radio, who can now access their local station on DAB."
The network was designed by small‑scale DAB specialist Ash Elford, who said there remains capacity for more services to join the multiplex and reach listeners across East Hampshire.
Local impact and practical details
Residents in the covered towns should notice clearer digital reception for the stations on the multiplex, including improved in‑car listening along the A3 corridor from the Hindhead Tunnel towards Butser Hill. The expansion is intended to serve communities where coverage was previously affected by the district’s hilly landscape.
- Coverage now reported at 66,995 people (Ofcom).
- Multiplex carries 11 services including local community stations.
- New transmitter located near Alton, improving access in Alton, Petersfield, Liphook and Bordon.
Coverage figures
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Current population coverage (Ofcom) | 66,995 |
| Reported increase in reach | 76% |
| Approximate coverage before expansion | ~38,066 (calculated from reported increase) |
Listeners keen to receive these stations on DAB should rescan their radios once in the improved areas. The operator has indicated space remains on the multiplex, which could allow additional local services to apply to join and broadcast to East Hampshire communities.
The upgrade is part of a broader drive to bring digital radio to locations where topography has historically limited reception, and to provide a stronger local platform for community and commercial stations in Hampshire.
