Ofcom fires starting gun on Welsh DAB

Ofcom has started inviting applications for a new Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) radio multiplex license to cover mid and west Wales.

The communications regulator is inviting interested parties to apply for a licence, which would last for 12 years.
The new Welsh DAB license is one of a number of new local digital radio services planned by Ofcom. The regulator is aiming a significant expansion of digital radio services throughout the UK.

Ofcom estimates that the new Welsh licence could cover an area with an adult (15+) population of around 400,000. However the exact coverage of the Welsh service will be determined by factors such as the location of transmission sites.
The closing date for license applications is 20 February 2008.

Capacity on the multiplex will be reserved for the transmission of digital services from BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru.

Media Week 28-Nov-07