Ofcom calls for applications to open new U.K national digital multiplex

Rejecting GCAP Media’s complaints, the U.K’s regulatory body Ofcom is sticking to its plan to open a new national block of digital radio frequencies for applications.

GCAP is 63% owner of the current exclusive U.K national digital multiplex Digital One, and had complained that its original successful bid for the first multiplex was with the understanding that it would be the only one allocated.

Digital One submitted a report purporting to demonstrate greater financial impact on its operations from a new multiplex than Ofcom’s studies had shown.

But Ofcom will offer the new multiplex, with room for up to 10 new DAB stations, subject to the result of a regional radio conference on international spectrum use next May.

Now GCAP is threatening legal action if Ofcom goes ahead with its second multiplex plans.