[CMA R] Next steps in expansion of digital radio

[Alan Fransman]

Next steps in expansion of digital radio

Ofcom today set out details of the licensing process which will lead to
a significant expansion in local and national DAB (Digital Audio
Broadcasting) radio services over the next three years.

The statement follows a consultation titled 'The Future Licensing of DAB 
Digital Radio' which closed on 15th March 2006.  The statement includes 
a number of proposals regarding the award of national and local radio 
multiplex licences.

A point about 'localness' is particularly significant in the statement:

"1.10 While recognising that the provision of local content on 
non-simulcast digital programme services can represent a significant 
cost, Ofcom continues to believe that, as catering for local tastes and 
interests is one of the criteria to which it must have regard when 
awarding a local radio multiplex licence, and in light of the importance 
placed upon localness by listeners, the amount of local material 
provided on a local radio multiplex properly should be a matter to which 
it should have regard when considering a request to vary a local radio 
multiplex licence."

Ofcom's full statement can be found at

http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/dab/statement/

-- 
Alan Fransman
Community Media Association
15 Paternoster Row
Sheffield
S1 2BX

+44 114 279 5219

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