Dates confirmed for Tyne Tees digital TV switchover

The dates have been announced for the start of the digital TV switchover in Tyne Tees TV, marking the final English region to transfer from analogue to digital.

On September 12, 2012 the transmitters serving Tyne Tees will switch off analogue BBC Two and boost the Freeview service to reach virtually all 1.4m households in the region.

The remaining analogue channels will be switched off in Tyne Tees on September 26, 2012 to complete the switchover process in the area.

After the switch has been completed, thousands of homes previously in digital blackspots, such as Sunderland, Whitby, Morpeth and Berwick-upon-Tweed, will be able to receive Freeview channels for the first time.

The North East will be the last region in England to make the switch to digital, bringing to an end the epic process of upgrading the UK's television infrastructure.

Various regions have already made the move to digital, including Scotland, the Granada TV region in the North West and the Anglia TV region. The switchover is expected to reach completion in London in time for the Olympic Games next summer.

Turning off analogue TV signals will allow digital terrestrial TV, essentially Freeview, to reach virtually all homes. At the end of the switchover, Freeview services are predicted to be available to 98.5% of households.

Digital UK and the Switchover Help Scheme will run a series of awareness campaigns in Tyne Tees ahead of the switchover next year, including roadshows, advertising and leaflet mailouts.

John Askew, Digital UK's regional manager for the North East, said: "[This] announcement paves the way for a new era in broadcasting for viewers in the North East.

"We are preparing for the end of analogue TV and the dawn of a fully digital age in which everyone can enjoy extra choice and easier recording.

"Digital UK and the Switchover Help Scheme will ensure people know about this important change, and that advice and practical support are available."