Dundee East MSP Shona Robison has expressed concern that even after digital switchover in 2010, some viewers in the city will continue to receive less channels than the majority.
The MSP received a reply from the Controller of BBC Scotland admitting that some viewers in the city will miss out on some of the commercial digital channels after switchover from analogue to digital TV next year.
It is possible that while the majority will receive more than 40 channels, some will only be able to receive approximately 20 channels.
The MSP had taken up the issue over a year ago and had a long correspondence with the BBC in London over the future of the Tay Bridge transmitter which some viewers in the city rely on to receive TV signals.
Shona Robison explained: “Residents in those parts of the city adjacent to the river seem to be having the most trouble. At present, they cannot receive good analogue signals from the powerful Angus transmitter because of the intervening hills, so they rely on the smaller Tay Bridge transmitter.
“Those who presently receive good analogue signals will receive a good digital signal and there will be an increase in the number of households receiving Freeview channels from 70% of households to 97%.
“Of course, some viewers who presently receive a poor analogue service will now find that they pick up Freeview channels after the switchover. So, in general, more households will have a wider choice after the switchover
“However, the role of the Tay Bridge transmitter after digital switchover is uncertain. I have been advised that it will still transmit the BBC suite of channels, along with ITV, Channel 4 etc. but may not receive the full number of the commercial channels received by those viewers served by the Angus transmitter.”
“Ditigal UK can advise on the latest position with regard to switchover issues and the BBC Reception website may also prove useful as may the BBC Reception Advice line. I will of, course, take up any further complaints or queries if contacted by constituents.”
