An extension of the Community Audio Distribution System trial period and trial areas

Published: 20|10|2005

The consultation on Licensing "Community Audio Distribution System" (CADS) closed on the 19th of October 2004 after which Ofcom announced the introduction of the new CADS provision on an experimental basis. The trial was due to end on the 3rd of November 2005 but has now been extended until 30 September 2006. The area of the trial has also been extended to include three additional Postcode areas in Lancashire. The additional BB, BL and OL Postcodes will extend the CADS trial to include Blackburn, Bolton, Burnley, Oldham, and Rochdale.

As a result of these extensions, the CADS trial will run in the BB, BD, BL, BT, LS and OL Postcode areas until 30 September 2006.

Reports from most operators have been favourable thus far, however Ofcom has a number of policy and technical issues that need to be resolved before a final decision on the CADS licensing regime can be made.

During the trial period, Ofcom encourages users to provide feedback on the usability and usefulness of the CADS radio service and on the suitability of the Citizens' Band radio spectrum for this application. These comments along with Ofcom's own monitoring and evaluation process will help to inform Ofcom's final policy decision.

The consultation document (now closed) and other information is available at http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/cads/

For more information on how to apply for a licence, access the Licensing information document at http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/cads/cads_app_forrm.pdf or call the:

• Ofcom national office Northern Ireland Tel. 028 9041 7500
• Ofcom England North office Tel. 01942 528 200 or the
• Ofcom Contact Centre Tel. 020 7981 3040.