2ZY was Manchester’s first radio station, established in 1922 by Metropolitan Vickers (Metrovicks), in Trafford Park. The station was a pioneer in British radio broadcasting.
The Metrovicks Broadcast Tower and 2ZY
The transmitter was installed on the ornate cast iron water tower at the Metrovicks works in Trafford Park, Manchester.
Test transmissions began on 17 May 1922, with regular broadcasts starting on 15 November 1922—just one day after London’s 2LO station.
The original studio was a converted office in the Metrovicks research building, with thick carpets and heavy curtains to dampen noise.
The transmitter’s aerial was strung between the water tower and the main building, a distinctive feature of the site.
Chorlton Good Neighbours 