Ofcom has granted UK radio amateurs a temporary spectrum allocation adjacent to our existing 144-146 MHz allocation. The additional allocation will be between 146 MHz and 147 MHz.  It will become available from 31st October 2014, will require a NoV and that the amateur hold a full/advanced license.

The temporary allocation is the result of VHF spectrum reallocation and Ofcom’s plan to have a tapered release of spectrum in the 143 – 169 MHz region to new users on a first-come-first-served basis.

Ofcom have chosen their words carefully regarding the definition of ‘temporary’, but my interpretation is that we should expect a 12 month rolling period from 31st October 2014.

The release statement is interesting reading as it identifies potential new users and the types of communication that, in the future, may be used.

The Ofcom VHF release statement.

Andrew
G0RVM