Liverpool's iconic Radio City Tower, also known as St Johns Beacon, is preparing to bid farewell as it hosts its final live broadcast on Christmas Eve 2023. This significant event marks the end of an era for the building, known for its famous presence on the skyline of Liverpool.
Built originally as a luxury revolving restaurant back in 1969, the tower became synonymous with Radio City after the station moved its operations there in 2000. Historic England described it as embodying the "technological bravura and spirit of the space age," which adds to its notable history.
Reflecting on the tower's storied past, former manager Molly Marshall shared, "It was great excitement when we actually moved to the tower. A helicopter came flying around and took a picture of us all waving from the top of the tower." This excitement was evident as the building became a pop culture landmark, where numerous celebrities visited during their tours.
Throughout its years of operation, the tower has seen its fair share of dramatic moments, such as the time when veteran radio DJ Pete Price was live on air during the 2008 earthquake, recounting, "It was the most unbelievable experience ever. It was a good job I was in an eight-second delay, because my language was absolute choice. So I had to cut myself off." This incident demonstrated not only the unpredictability of live broadcasting but also the unique experiences one could have within the tower.
Price also recounted other memorable moments, like when the phone lines swelled with 19,000 calls within just one hour from listeners trying to get through to speak to a psychic. He remembered how the tower would sway up to seven inches during strong winds, leading to some eerie experiences inside the studio.
Radio City Tower was not just known for its unique architecture and history; it held nostalgic value for many. With its recent move to new office spaces at ground level, the station decided to transition away from the tower, leading to this poignant final broadcast. Marshall noted, “I think to everybody, it will always remain the Radio City tower, whatever it becomes.”
The viewing gallery, popular with both locals and tourists who wanted to experience panoramic views of the city, will remain open until the end of December 2023, allowing one last glimpse of the legacy it holds.
While many plans for the tower’s future have been floated, nothing has been firmly decided. Marshall mentioned past proposals, including one to create a zip line between the tower and the central library, which was vetoed by former mayor Joe Anderson.
Reflecting on the closing of this significant broadcast chapter, Carolyn Hughes, who worked closely with Radio City, stated, "Better to have loved and lost than never loved at all, I guess ... Rest easy Radio City, you can stand down now knowing you put a great shift in.” This statement perfectly encapsulates the bittersweet feelings tied to the tower's enduring legacy as it prepares for its next chapter.
The final live broadcast will undoubtedly be filled with nostalgia, laughter, and perhaps even tears as former colleagues and listeners come together to celebrate the memories made within the walls of Liverpool's famous Radio City Tower.
