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17
Aug 2021
Still no TV or radio services for district residents after transmitter fire
Thousands of homes across the north of the Harrogate district remain without TV or radio freeview services, a week after a major fire at a transmitter mast.
The blackout was caused by the fire last Tuesday that put the 315-metre Bilsdale transmitter out of action.
The loss of the transmitter is affecting parts of Harrogate, Boroughbridge, Kirkby Malzeard, Knaresborough, Masham, Pateley Bridge, Ripon and other locations that rely on a signal that serves the Tyne Tees region.
An update issued on Friday by Arqiva, owners of the transmitter, estimated that the repair work will take up to 14 days.
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As viewers and listeners ask questions about when they can tune in once more to freeview on TV and radio, one resident has contacted Julian Smith MP requesting that the government look at the bigger picture, in relation to critical infrastructure that serves millions of people.
James Thornborough, who lives in Sharow and whose work saw him specialise in disaster planning, recovery and business continuity, told the Stray Ferret:
In an email response, Mr Smith said:
In its statement on Friday, Arqiva, provided an update on on-going reinstatement works at the existing site and efforts to bring a television signal back to thousands of properties.
It said:
For many avid TV watchers and radio listeners, a two-week wait is too long and they are looking for other means of tuning in to their favourite programmes.
This can range from re-setting digital TV boxes, to calling in professionals to have their aerials turned to pick up the signal from the Emley Moor Transmitter, which serves the Yorkshire television area.
People can also tune in via the BBC iPlayer.
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