Future Utilisation of the 470-694 MHz Band in the UK
In this report, written for the UK Spectrum Policy Forum ahead of WRC-23, Coleago explores the future use of the 470-694 MHz UHF band in the United Kingdom post 2030. The band is sought after and used by a wide range of services, including digital terrestrial television (DTT), programme-making and special events (PMSE) and mobile services amongst others.
Spectrum, a crucial national resource for the UK, presents economic and societal benefits. Its management requires periodic review to align with evolving technology and market dynamics. The forthcoming ITU WRC-23 Agenda Item 1.5 will assess the future use of the 470-694 MHz band in Region 1, emphasising potential shifts from traditional broadcasting to newer applications like mobile communications.
This commissioned report by the UK Spectrum Policy Forum explores post-2030 scenarios for the 470-694 MHz band. Key drivers of change in UHF spectrum use include the decline of linear TV, escalating mobile spectrum demand for 5G, continual growth in PMSE (Programme Making and Special Events) equipment use, and the convergence of mobile and broadcasting.
Four main scenarios are identified
Status Quo: No change in allocation. Linear TV declines modestly, mobile broadband demand grows steadily, and PMSE sees moderate growth.
Flexible Use: Co-primary allocation for broadcast and mobile services. Linear TV dwindles, and there’s support for 5G Broadcast internationally.
IMT600 Band Plan: Split allocation between broadcast and mobile services. Linear TV declines, but the band is divided into ranges for broadcast and mobile, accommodating specific bandwidths for each.
Transition to IPTV: Significant growth in mobile data demand due to a strong economic rebound. Linear TV decreases substantially, and a hybrid allocation between broadcast and mobile is proposed.
Efforts to enhance spectral efficiency and accommodate evolving user needs are emphasised across scenarios, urging stakeholders to optimise UHF spectrum use for broader societal benefits.
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Looking to the future
Challenges and opportunities arise in leveraging technology advancements, especially in DTT platforms and MNO spectrum allocations. The potential for interference between DTT and mobile services is noted, requiring bilateral agreements and coordination among countries.
The report highlights the potential for spectrum sharing between PMSE and IMT and recognises the need for a balanced approach to manage scarce UHF spectrum. It acknowledges that accommodating all stakeholders simultaneously might not be feasible, necessitating compromises, such as spectrum sharing.
The influence of international developments, especially decisions at World Radio Conferences (WRCs), will shape future UHF spectrum use. The report aims to contribute constructively to discussions by presenting scenarios and areas warranting further research.
While the report delves into specific outcomes concerning broadcasting and mobile coexistence, it acknowledges the need for broader regulatory assessments, which could be the focus of future studies.
Overall, the report serves as a comprehensive assessment of potential scenarios and their implications for the UK’s UHF spectrum use, emphasising the need for balanced decisions amidst evolving technological and market landscapes.
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