Wales becomes UK's first digital nation

Final analogue signals turned off after 74 years

Wales officially becomes the UK’s first digital nation today as the final analogue TV signals around Cardiff are switched off for good, signalling the dawn of an all-digital era for the country.

Shortly after midnight, analogue BBC One, ITV1, S4C and Five were turned off permanently at the Wenvoe transmitter group, enabling extra channels to be broadcast from 75 local relay transmitters serving thousands of homes, and making Cardiff the UK’s first digital capital city.

The changes also affect existing Freeview viewers who may find some of their channels missing this morning. The services have moved to new frequencies and can be restored by retuning Freeview TVs and boxes.(1)

Digital UK, which has co-ordinated the switch, and the Switchover Help Scheme are today running advice points and a roadshow to provide support for viewers who need it. The Help Scheme is still open to applications from older and disabled viewers who may qualify for help including a choice of equipment, installation and aftercare.(2)

Emyr Byron Hughes, Digital UK’s National Manager in Wales, said: “This is an historic day for TV in Wales as we say goodbye to the old analogue system forever. Before switchover began, one-in-three Welsh viewers couldn’t receive Freeview. Today, virtually everyone in Wales has that choice, with one million people gaining coverage.

“As with any change on this scale, some people may need a bit of extra help so we and the Help Scheme are on hand to give advice and assistance to those who may need it.”

The Help Scheme remains open to applications until 30 April.

Digital UK is providing support through local advice points, its website and an advice line (08456 50 50 50). A switchover roadshow is also running today at St John’s Street in Cardiff City Centre and the Kingsway shopping centre in Newport.