British Telecom Tower, Birmingham

The BT Tower in Birmingham is a prominent telecommunications and architectural landmark, previously known as the Post Office Tower and the GPO Tower. As Birmingham's tallest structure, it stands out not only in the cityscape but also in its historical and functional significance.

Construction began in July 1963 and was completed by September 1965, with the tower becoming operational in December 1966. It was officially opened on October 5, 1967, by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Alderman James S. Meadows. The tower was a design project of the Ministry of Public Building and Works, with M.H. Bristow as the senior architect, featuring a unique aesthetic and practical design with 26 stories that include technical areas and offices, topped with five levels of circular aerial galleries.

Originally intended to mirror the circular design of London's tower but without public access floors, the Birmingham BT Tower was redesigned due to cost overruns experienced with the London tower. It adopted a 'Chilterns' type circular design but with an increased diameter to accommodate more equipment. Eventually, aesthetic considerations led to the selection of its current square design.

In 2003, the tower was repainted from its original light brown to an ultramarine blue, with darker blue balconies, enhancing its visual appeal. The tower was illuminated for the first time at night in March 2004 by local comedian Jasper Carrott, marking a local policy to light up landmarks.

Ecologically, the tower has also become a habitat for a pair of peregrine falcons, with a webcam installed in 2010 to observe these birds. Technological advancements led to the removal of the last large analog aerial dishes in 2012 as part of a transition to digital transmission, leaving about eighty smaller dishes in place.

As of 2020, the tower underwent significant refurbishments that included the removal of obsolete satellites and antennas, which slightly reduced its height from 152 meters to 140 meters. The refurbishment was completed in May 2022, ensuring that the BT Tower continues to serve as a vital telecommunications hub while retaining its historical and architectural heritage.