WESTSIDE (formerly Westside 89.6FM) is a community radio station based in Hanwell, London, broadcasting locally on 89.6 FM, via DAB Digital Radio across much of London, and online at thisiswestside.com. The station specialises in Hip Hop, R&B, and urban culture, describing its format as Old to the New Skool Hip Hop and R&B.
WESTSIDE launched on 13 September 2007 after receiving a community radio FM licence from Ofcom. The station was officially opened by Boris Johnson, then a candidate for Mayor of London, who attended the launch event and cut the ribbon at the station’s West London studios. His appearance marked the formal beginning of what would become one of London’s most recognised community radio outlets.
Originally serving West London from its base in Southall, the station focused on Hip Hop, R&B, Grime, and urban culture, establishing a strong youth and community presence in the Ealing area.
On 17 November 2025, WESTSIDE officially launched on DAB Digital Radio across London on the City West Digital (West London) and South of the River Digital Radio (South London) multiplexes. The expansion extended its potential audience to more than six million London listeners, significantly widening its footprint beyond its traditional FM coverage area.
Coverage and Format
The station broadcasts from Hanwell and can be heard from Uxbridge in the west, Harrow in the north, Croydon in the south, and Greenwich in the east via DAB. It also continues to broadcast on 89.6 FM in West London and streams globally via thisiswestside.com.
WESTSIDE’s musical output blends classic and contemporary Hip Hop and R&B, alongside talk shows, entertainment programming, and community-driven content. The station maintains a strong focus on supporting emerging talent and local creative initiatives.
Community Role and Talent Development
WESTSIDE is widely recognised as a talent-development platform within London’s media landscape. Over nearly two decades, the station has launched the careers of numerous presenters, DJs, producers, and creatives who have progressed into major UK broadcasters, national media outlets, television, digital media, and other creative industries.
In addition to broadcasting, the station provides opportunities for young people to gain experience in grassroots media, production, and presenting.
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