The digital revolution begins…
Friday, March 30th, 2007…in Whitehaven.
It is now just over a year and a half before digital switchover over begins – if all goes to plan, the revolution will be televised.
On the 17th of October of this year, the BBC2 analogue signal will be turned off in the Cumbrian town of Whitehaven, followed by the termination of the remaining analogue signals (BBC1, ITV1, Channel 4) on the 14th of November.
It is believed that Whitehaven was chosen because of its relatively remote location, and history of problems with radio and TV reception – some residents in the area still cannot receive Channel 5. Experience gathered from this early step of the switchover plan will allow broadcasters to tackle reception problems posed by similar areas.
The switchover process, starting in 2008, will happen region by region, with the Border region, affecting Dumfries in southern Scotland and Lancaster and Kendal in the North of England, being the first area in the UK to power down its analogue signal.
Official government figures for ‘Q3 2006′ show that 74% of UK homes have ‘partial’ digital coverage, meaning that at least one TV set in the house has been enabled to receive digital transmissions, and 39% of households are fully covered – every set in the house is digital-ready.
With the price of set-top boxes, DVRs and subscriptions always falling – Freeview boxes are now available from £25 – these figures could swiftly increase between now and next year, meaning that UK residents will easily be able to get set up for the digital age.
