Broadcasting and telecommunications happen here at the Croydon Transmitting Station. This facility stands on Beaulieu Heights in Upper Norwood. It is within the London Borough of Croydon. Arqiva owns it.
The Croydon Transmitting Station has a rich history. It began in 1955 with a small lattice tower. The current tower is 152 metres tall. It was built in 1962. It is an impressive sight near the Crystal Palace Tower. Some people call them the Eiffel Towers of South London.
Originally, the Croydon Transmitting Station broadcast London ITV. This was on VHF Band III. Later, UHF broadcasting started. The Crystal Palace transmitting station then took over this task. VHF television stopped in 1985. The Croydon transmitter was not used for TV until 1997. A new antenna was installed then. It broadcast Channel 5 in London. This antenna avoided interference with transmitters in other countries.
Croydon also had backup transmitters. These served BBC1, BBC2, ITV, and Channel 4. They were only used if Crystal Palace had problems. Digital switchover happened in April 2012. Since then, Croydon has not broadcast television. It remains a backup for Crystal Palace. It supports BBC A and B. It also supports Digital 3 and 4. Plus, it handles COM 4, 5, and 6 multiplexes.
The Croydon Transmitting Station is more than just a transmitter. It is a maintenance base for transmitter teams. It once housed a Regional Operations Centre.
Today, the Croydon Transmitting Station broadcasts FM and DAB radio. These services cover Greater London. Phone companies also use the tower. It helps deliver fast information.
Imagine the views from the top. Riggers enjoy these views. They work on microwave installations. They ensure our access to information is always improving. The Croydon Transmitting Station plays a vital role in London’s communications network. It stands as a testament to broadcasting history. It continues to adapt to modern needs.