Ofcom kicks off fifth spectrum auction

Ofcom has announced plans for its fifth radio spectrum auction, which will be held online and is expected to start in spring 2008.

The 1452MHz to 1492MHz band, known as the 'L-Band', is suitable for multimedia services such as mobile television, satellite radio and broadband wireless access.

No fixed use will be applied to the spectrum, and successful bidders will be able to choose what services to offer.

Companies will also be able to change their use of the spectrum over time, and all licences will be tradable.

"The release of the spectrum in the 1452-1492MHz band is part of a wider programme to release around 400MHz of spectrum at prime frequencies below 3GHz, " said Ofcom in an official statement.

"Other awards in this programme include the digital dividend, the highly-valued spectrum that will be freed up through the switch to digital television, plus Channel 36 which is within the television bands, and the 2.6GHz bands."

Ofcom claimed that research showed that the use of the radio spectrum contributes £37bn, or three per cent, to the UK's gross domestic product.

Chief executive Ed Richards explained that his organisation is responsible for ensuring the most efficient use of the UK's finite spectrum resource.

"This marks the start of our fifth spectrum auction process as we continue to release spectrum for the benefit of consumers and citizens," he said.

The move comes just days after Ofcom officially announced its fourth spectrum sale, which could see companies bidding to provide high-speed wireless internet access.