BT Telecoms Tower


BT Telecoms Tower

BT Tower, scene of a bomb in 1971, and was an 'official secret'.

Location: 60 Cleveland Street, London

Description: The BT Tower just north of London's West End was the first purpose-built tower to transmit high frequency radio waves, and it serves as a functional telecommunications centre designed to relay broadcast, Internet and telephone information around the world.

In the early hours of October 31, 1971, a bomb exploded on the 31st floor although no-one ever claimed responsibility for the device. No-one was injured in the blast but the damage took two years to repair.

Despite being one of most recognisable and conspicuous buildings in London, it was classed as an 'official secret' until fairly recently, and taking or possessing photos of the tower was technically an offence under the Official Secrets Act.

Themes: ArchitectureArchitecture Theme  PoliticsPolitics Theme  CrimeCrime Theme
BT Telecoms Tower

BT Tower, scene of a bomb in 1971, and was an 'official secret'.

Ranking This Month: 1891/3075

Pages Hit This Month: 19


Credits: http://www.urban75.org

2» Correction: Although the restaurant closed, the revolving mechanism is still in place and can still be used. (Photoman)
Posted by Photoman on 2011-08-28
1» When it was built, the 31st floor was designed as a revolving restaurant, the most expensive restaurant in London. A glass of Coca-Cola cost £5, when a can at the time was only 10p. The restaurant closed after the bomb attack, the building closed to the public and the revolving mechanism removed, as the 31st floor was converted to be used as a call centre. (Photoman)
Posted by Photoman on 2008-09-08

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