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30|11|07

All eyes on London as Ofcom plans spectrum use for the 2012 Olympics

Ofcom today set out its approach to planning the use of radio spectrum for the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.

The event will create high levels of demand for radio spectrum - a natural resource that you can't see, hear or touch but which is the essential raw material for all wireless communications.

The Games will be one of the most viewed sporting events of all time and is expected to attract some 20,000 accredited media to the UK who will beam live pictures and commentary around the world. In addition, the Games, which will attract over ten million spectators and nearly 15,000 participants to the 35 competition venues across the UK, will require wireless communications for logistics to ensure the smooth and seamless operation of the event.

Ofcom's responsibility for organising a full spectrum plan for the Games was outlined in London's bid to the International Olympic Committee in 2004. As part of that bid, the Government guaranteed that spectrum would be allocated for the organisation of the Games. The discussion document published today looks at the various demands for spectrum in preparation for and during the six week period of the Games. This includes:

• video links for wireless cameras to be used by the World's media;
• handheld radios to be used by the London Organising Committee to run the Games, from sports services to venue management;
• audio links including wireless microphones and in-ear monitors; and
• low-power local broadcasting services for commentary during competitions and interviews.

Ofcom planned and managed the spectrum requirements for the start of the 2007 Tour de France, which set off from London in July. We intend to build on this experience as well as identify lessons from other events in planning for the London Olympics.

Today's publication seeks views on spectrum requirements and is the first step in ensuring that sufficient spectrum is available for the Games. Ofcom aims to consult on a full spectrum plan following the Beijing Olympics which start in August 2008. We are confident that this process will ensure London's spectrum needs are met.

Ofcom's Chief Executive, Ed Richards, said: "We can't see it, hear it or touch it but radio spectrum is absolutely essential to delivering the most technologically advanced Olympic Games ever. With the eyes of the World on London during the 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, Ofcom will play a crucial role in ensuring that spectrum is available for the smooth operation of these events."

The document can be found at: http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/spectrum2012/

Ends.

Notes for Editors and CSEs

1. Ofcom is the independent regulator and competition authority for the UK communications industries, with responsibilities across television, radio, telecommunications and wireless communications services.

2. The London 2012 Games will take place from 27 July to 9 September 2012 and will be hosted across 35 competition venues in the UK.

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