National Grid Wireless to lead a bid for new national digital radio multiplex

21st Nov 2007

National Grid Wireless has today announced its intention to lead a bid for the second national digital radio multiplex, which is due to be advertised by Ofcom later this month. The second national digital radio multiplex will serve most of the UK and is expected to launch in 2008.

National Grid Wireless has a wealth of experience and expertise in the area of digital and analogue radio - it developed and deployed the BBC's DAB network, it operates 9 of the 11 national radio networks and it has invested in a number of trials looking at the future of digital radio in the UK. The company believes that if successful it can provide a ‘neutral host' role to the radio industry, similar to the one it already provides for digital TV with Freeview.

Tony Moretta, general manager, broadcast, at National Grid Wireless said: "The decision to bid for this licence is based on extensive consultation with the radio industry and we are confident that we can provide an open, non-competitive platform that will enable digital radio to achieve the next stage in its development."

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