Ofcom to auction L-Band radio spectrum

The auction is part of a wider programme to free up around 400MHz of prime spectrum

Ofcom has confirmed plans to auction off the so-called L-Band part of the radio spectrum suitable for mobile television and satellite radio.

The regulator said that the online auction is likely to take place at the end of April and advised interested parties to submit applications by 10 April.

Potential uses of the L-Band 1452-1492MHz band include broadband wireless access or high-speed internet on the move.

The auction is part of a wider programme to free up around 400MHz of prime spectrum, which will also include the 'digital dividend' for television and the 2.6GHz band.

"Ofcom's fifth award of spectrum in the L-Band is part of the process of ensuring that the UK's valuable spectrum resource is used as efficiently as possible," said Ofcom spectrum policy partner Philip Rutnam.

"This spectrum provides an opportunity for citizens and consumers to benefit from new services and greater competition."