Rising tall before us is the Tour Hertzienne de Villeneuve d’Ascq. It is a testament to modern communication. This tower stands in the Flers-Bourg district of Villeneuve-d’Ascq. Some people call it the “Tour de Mons”. This is technically incorrect. It is actually situated at a place called Fort de Mons.
Construction on the Tour Hertzienne de Villeneuve d’Ascq finished in 1979. For over 40 years it has dominated the urban landscape. The tower has become a familiar sight. Locals often use it as a point of reference.
The Tour Hertzienne de Villeneuve d’Ascq is 140 meters tall. Its location is 45 meters above sea level. You can spot it from various points in Lille and Roubaix. On a clear day the tower is visible from Belgium.
Originally, the P.T.T owned the Tour Hertzienne de Villeneuve d’Ascq. It was initially used for satellite telephone communications. Today TDF manages the tower. It serves as a relay for national and local radio stations. Mobile operators also use it for their antennas.
The Tour Hertzienne de Villeneuve d’Ascq plays a crucial role. It broadcasts FM radio across the Nord department. Its signal even reaches parts of Belgium. Wallonia, Flanders and Antwerp receive the broadcast signal.
The construction method was special. Workers used a continuous pouring process. This prevented cracks in the structure. The Tour Hertzienne de Villeneuve d’Ascq is painted red and white. This makes it even more visible.
Many radio stations broadcast from the tower. RTL2 Nord Virgin Radio Nord Europe 1 and RTL are among them. RFM Nord BFM Business and Fun Radio also broadcast from here. RCF Hauts de France Metropolys and Mona FM use it too.
Mobile operators also have antennas on the tower. Orange SFR Bouygues Telecom and Free use the tower for mobile communications. Other transmissions include CEREMA Custom Connect and E*Message. IFW and Sysoco also use the tower.
So as you stand here take a good look at the Tour Hertzienne de Villeneuve d’Ascq. It’s a symbol of connectivity. It is also a landmark recognized far beyond Villeneuve-d’Ascq. It connects France with Belgium through radio waves.