Section 54A Variation of radio multiplex licences: frequency or licensed area

(1)

F1OFCOM may, if the requirements of subsections (3) to (5) are met, vary a national radio multiplex licence by extending the area in which the licensed service is required to be available.

(2)

OFCOM may, if the requirements of subsections (3) to (6) are met, vary a local radio multiplex licence by—

(a)

varying the frequency on which the licensed service is required to be provided,

(b)

reducing the area or locality in which the licensed service is required to be available, or

(c)

extending that area or locality to include an adjoining area or locality.

(3)

OFCOM must have received an application for the variation from the licence holder.

(4)

The application must include a technical plan relating to the service proposed to be provided under the licence indicating, in particular—

(a)

the area or locality which would be within the coverage area of the service,

(b)

the timetable in accordance with which that coverage would be achieved, and

(c)

the technical means by which it would be achieved.

(5)

Before deciding whether to grant the application, OFCOM must publish a notice specifying—

(a)

the proposed variation of the licence, and

(b)

a period in which representations may be made to OFCOM about the proposal.

(6)

In the case of a local radio multiplex licence, OFCOM may vary the licence in accordance with the application only if they are satisfied that F2the coverage area of the licensed service would not (as a result of the variation) be unacceptably reduced.

Annotations

Textual amendments

F1: S. 54A inserted (8.6.2010) by Digital Economy Act 2010 (c. 24), ss. 35, 47(1)
F2: Words in s. 54A(6) substituted (17.10.2024) by Media Act 2024 (c. 15), ss. 47(7), 55(3)(e); S.I. 2024/1033, reg. 3(g) (with reg. 5(2))