Ofcom has today published a “Call for Input” regarding management of the UHF spectrum (420-470 MHz)
The document released by Ofcom outlines that the current UK allocations in the UHF band are not aligned with the relevant European configuration plan and there is increasing demand to make use of UHF. This Call for Inputs marks the first part of Ofcom’s review of UHF spectrum allocation.
Call for Inputs
Ofcom document: “459.5 MHz was allocated prior to harmonised LE bands being made available at other frequencies. It may not be feasible to retain a UK only LE allocation in this band in the future given increasing congestion and availability of frequencies elsewhere. Likewise ongoing amateur use of this congested band may need to be reviewed.”
Aegis document: In the section referring to the use of a ‘Parking Band’, the document states that “Another option might be to remove the Radioamateurs for a limited period.”
Ofcom states: “… we invite views and comments on the questions posed in this CFI from stakeholders representing all incumbent users as well as those with a future interest in the 420 – 470 MHz band”
Our initial assumption is that the RSGB, acting as one of “stakeholders representing all incumbent users”, will be replying to the Ofcom CFI on behalf of UK radio amateurs, and it’s not clear whether it’s appropriate (or required) for individual radio amateurs to respond at this stage. We’ll update you if we hear more.
If you have any thoughts or questions, please add them below…
I feel that it would can only add in our favour to bring us in line with the other European band plans, but I would like to see that some of the extra bands to be allowed to be given to people with less than a full lic. as all new band plans are always for full holders only and they are a lot of radio hams out there that do not have the chance to get a full lic. either there problems or not, but how would you feel if you hear of new band widths that you can not use as you just can not get or do not have the full lic. OK not all the possible new allowed plans but if not, how does it look to them members how can not or feel they can not progress to full lic. so how do we help support them as all the bands move around them.