Ofcom advertises new local digital radio multiplex licence for Somerset

Ofcom today advertises a new local Digital Audio Broadcasting ( DAB) radio multiplex licence to cover Somerset.

Today’s advertisement is one of a number of new local radio multiplex licences planned to develop DAB coverage for local services in those parts of the country not already served. This licensing process will lead to a significant expansion in digital radio services throughout the UK.

Ofcom estimates that this licence could achieve coverage of an area with an adult (aged 15+) population of around 480,000. The exact coverage will be determined by the location of the successful applicant's transmission sites and other technical characteristics.

The closing date for the receipt of applications is 3.00 pm on 23 April 2008. A non-refundable fee of £5,000 will be payable for each application submitted.

This local radio multiplex will include capacity reserved for the transmission in digital form of BBC Somerset.

The licence will be issued for a twelve-year period. All applications for this licence will be published on the Ofcom website as soon as possible after the closing date.

The full details for this licence, including the guidelines and procedures for the submission of applications, can be obtained from the Ofcom website - see Related Items.