Affinity Media NE CIC Opens New State-of-the-Art Broadcast Studios in Pelaw, Gateshead.

Affinity Media NE CIC — the community organisation behind Affinity Radio North East — celebrated the official opening of its brand-new, state-of-the-art broadcast studios in Pelaw, Gateshead, on Thursday 11 December 2025.

The launch marks two major milestones for local broadcasting in the region:
• Four years since the UK’s first Small-Scale DAB service began in South Shields and Tynemouth, and
• One year of DAB broadcasting across Newcastle and Gateshead.

The celebration was attended by distinguished guests, including:
• Pam Royle, award-winning North East television presenter and former ITV Tyne Tees / North East Tonight host
• The Deputy Mayoress of Gateshead, Sharron Potts
• Key business sponsors and supporters

As a Community Interest Company, Affinity Media NE CIC continues to create inclusive opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Through volunteering, media training, and real on-air experience, the organisation helps individuals build confidence, develop new skills, and share their stories with local audiences.

Broadcasting on DAB Digital Radio across Newcastle, Gateshead, South Shields, and Tynemouth, as well as online and via smart speakers, Affinity Radio champions community voices, grassroots news, local music, and regional talent.

Deputy Mayoress Sharron Potts, Gateshead Council, said:

“What I love about Affinity Radio is that it’s all about the community. In a world that can feel pretty busy and distant at times, projects like Kyle’s bring people together — showing what Gateshead does best: supporting each other and getting involved.

It’s amazing to have this in our community. Kyle’s passion and commitment have made his dream a reality.”

Pam Royle, former ITV Tyne Tees presenter, said:

“It has been wonderful to see Affinity Media North East’s growth — from the launch of the small, though brilliant, community station Radio Shields in 2021 to its expansion into Affinity Radio Shields and Affinity Radio Newcastle on DAB, both based at the Pride Media Centre in Heworth.

Created and driven by CEO Kyle Scott, the continued success and growth into Affinity Radio North East is testament to his dedication and desire to serve a wider audience. He provides opportunities for local talent to flourish both on air and behind the scenes.

It is tremendous to see the effect Affinity Radio has in keeping communities connected over the airwaves. Congratulations to all involved.

I first met Kyle around 16 years ago when he asked to visit ITV Tyne Tees for work experience. It has been a joy to witness his dedication in achieving his goal of providing great listening and fantastic opportunities for talent to thrive.”

Angela Tuplin, Director of NE Display Ltd and Affinity Media NE CIC, said:

“The launch of Affinity Radio’s new home is more than the opening of a building — it marks the fulfilment of a young boy who dared to dream.

From a young age, Kyle envisioned a broadcasting platform where the local community could share feel-good stories and music. It’s fitting that his vision has been brought to life by that very same supportive community.

I truly believe that 2026 will see even more people tuning into Affinity Radio, and I can’t wait to see how far one boy’s dream can actually go.”

Kyle Scott, CEO and Founder of Affinity Media NE CIC, said:

“These new studios represent growth, opportunity, and community. Everything we have built has been shaped by volunteers, supported by local businesses, and driven by the passion to give people a place to be heard. We are incredibly proud to begin this new chapter.”

The event welcomed volunteers, partners, supporters, and members of the community, who were given the first look inside the new facilities and joined in celebrating this significant milestone for community broadcasting in the North East.