The BBC are suing site operators of the Bilsdale TV mast after a fire destroyed the original structure leaving millions without TV signals.

The broadcaster is seeking money that is owed by the telecommunications company under its existing contract.

The mast unexpectedly burst into flames on August 10, 2021 leaving hundreds of thousands without TV or radio signals.

Since then Arqiva has been working to restore signals to as many people as possible, erecting smaller relay masts and most recently a temporary mast on the site of the former structure.

The Northern Echo:

Now, site operators hope to switch on a new permanent 300-metre mast within weeks, after the construction of the structure over the last year.

Read more: Bilsdale Transmitter update: BBC agree to refund licence fee after no TV signal

However, the BBC argue that Arqiva has ‘failed to meet expected performance levels’ after more than 18 months has passed.

A spokesperson for BBC said: “Since the Bilsdale Site fire in August 2021, audiences across Yorkshire and the North-East of England have suffered disruption to their viewing and listening.

“The BBC has been working with Arqiva to restore full services as soon as possible. However, after more than 18 months, Arqiva has failed to meet expected performance levels, both contractually and for our audiences.

“The BBC is now seeking money owed by Arqiva under its contracts with the BBC.”

The Northern Echo campaigned back in September 2021 calling for the BBC to refund licence fee holders affected by the fire.

Read more: Bilsdale transmitter: Pressure mounts on BBC to issue full licence fee refunds

Politicians and organisations backed the campaign including political heavyweights such as Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and Age UK Darlington and North Yorkshire.

BBC bowed to pressure confirming that some people would be refunded, however, it didn’t extend to all of those affected as the corporation’s red tape means they will only pay out when people have been without a signal for a month.

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Just this week it was announced that the new permanent structure that should restore signals to nearly all of those still affected will be live within weeks, Arqiva said.

Over 99 per cent will only need to retune their TVs, however, a very small group may not benefit from the new mast.

Arqiva say they are writing to these households about what they need to do if they lose TV services once the mast goes live.