BBC adds 1000 transmitters to Freeview
Arqiva (once NTL Broadcast, before that IBA Engineering) has signed a deal with the BBC to provide the new high-power digital terrestrial television (aka Freeview) network.
These transmission services will become operational during 2008 and will continue until 2031, subject to approval of the BBC's Executive Board and the BBC Governors. They will replace both the BBC's analogue television network and the current low-powered DTT network.
Arqiva will also expand the coverage of the BBC's network: at least 10 and potentially a further 160 new digital radio transmitters will come into service.
Arqiva - the privatized IBA Engineering who built the analogue ITV networks - have outbid National Grid Wireless - originally the BBC's Engineering division, who are the BBC's partners in Freeview.
National Grid Wireless will continue to broadcast BBC analogue television and radio, low power DTT and the BBC's current national DAB digital radio network.
Richard Waghorn, Controller of Distribution at the BBC, said: "This represents one of the major steps in our preparations for digital switchover.
"It will mean that everybody who currently receives a good analogue service will receive the BBC's digital services through their aerial after switchover.
"Subject to finalising our discussions with Arqiva, we hope soon to be able to sign a contract with Arqiva which will also secure true value for money for the future provision of these transmission services."
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