A £470 million reorganisation of DTT frequencies will enable mobile broadband services to use spectrum above 700MHz.
Ofcom says it’s possible to replan the UK’s DTT frequencies without having a major impact on DTT coverage or the existing channel line-up. The regulator adds that it believes the change can take place without forcing channels to move to the more efficient DVB-T2 transmission standard.
Wireless microphones will also be moved to another band as part of plans to deliver faster mobile broadband. The regulator says demand for mobile data could be 45 times higher by 2030 than it is today.
Ed Richards, Ofcom Chief Executive, said: “This is a crucial next step in the development of the UK’s communications infrastructure. This decision ensures that we are making the raw materials available with which investors and companies can build the services which will support the digital economy of the future.
“More spectrum will be available for mobile broadband where demand is especially high, but the UK will retain a competitive terrestrial television platform as well.”
Under the plans DTT (Freeview) services would no longer be able to use spectrum between 694MHz and 790MHz. The six principal UK DTT multiplexes would be safeguarded, as would local TV services and the Northern Ireland multiplex. However, there are no guarantees for the Interim Multiplex, though licence holder Arqiva was made aware of this at its award.
Arqiva estimates the cost of the modifying DTT transmission infrastructure is put at between £420 million and £470 million.
A number of viewers would need to retune their receivers and up to 110,000 households would need to replace their aerials.
