Digital Switchover information

from  digital uk  in the North West

JUNE 2008

the latest news about digital television switch

NORTH WEST VIEWERS ARE GETTING SET

Viewers in the North West are converting more of their second sets to digital ahead of next year’s switchover, new research reveals. Of all televisions in the region that are not the main TV in the household, 60% are digital, according to the Digital UK/Ofcom Tracker for January-March this year – up from 49% in the previous quarter. Some 86% of main TVs in the North West are digital, and awareness of the switchover in the region now stands at 95%.

BARONESS BACKS ONLINE GUIDE AND CHECKLIST FOR COUNCILS

Digital UK has launched an online guide and checklist for councils to help them prepare for digital TV switchover. Backed by Baroness Andrews, Communities and Local Government minister, the site explains the issues local authorities need to consider in the countdown to digital switchover: the implications for services such as schools, housing and social care; the need to protect consumers from mis-selling and rogue traders; and the implications for energy efficiency, waste disposal and planning.  Visit the new site  

ITV GOES HIGH DEFINITION AS DEMAND FOR FREESAT GROWS

ITV launched its first HD channel exclusively on Freesat, kicking off with Euro 2008 coverage of Portugal v Turkey on June 7. Viewers of the free-to-air satellite service from the BBC and ITV were able to watch the high-definition broadcast by hitting the red button on their remote control. Coverage of other Euro 2008 matches is also expected to be available in high definition. Freesat HD digital boxes are now available from Humax, Goodmans, Grundig and Bush, though the new digital TV provider issued a warning of shortages due to high demand.

LANDLORDS GET GUIDE TO HELP WITH TV PLANS FOR RESIDENTS

A good practice guide to help property managers consult with residents on the costs and benefits of preparing for digital switchover has been published by Digital UK. Calling all landlords provides practical advice together with a checklist to help housing organisations and private landlords discuss the implications of digital television, including the need for possible upgrades to communal aerial systems and any resulting service charges.  More from Digital UK

WELSH HOUSING SECTOR GETS ITS HOMES SET FOR DIGITAL

Digital UK has presented the first ‘Homes Set for Digital’ accreditations in Wales, following a ceremony held at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay. Anglesey County Council and Clwyd Alyn Housing Association both received the awards from the scheme, which recognise housing organisations able to provide digital television and information about switchover to residents in good time before analogue services are switched off in their region.

digital diary

June 6 - July 19

Digital UK Switchover Roadshow in Scottish Borders, Cumbria, Dumfries and Galloway and Isle of Man

June 9

Welsh Assembly takes evidence on digital switchover

June 11

Digital UK speaks at the Digital Channels conference, Royal Festival Hall

June 17

Digital UK at the Charted Institute of Housing conference, Harrogate

June 24

Digital UK at the Trading Standards Institute conference, Bournemouth

June 26

Public Accounts Committee publishes report on digital switchover

July 1

Digital UK at the Local Government Association Conference, Bournemouth

Digital UK is  the not-for-profit organisation leading the UK’s switch to digital television, which takes place in Granada in 2009. To find out more visit  www.digitaluk.co.uk