Ofcom today published a consultation document on the digital replacement licences (DRLs) that will take the UK’s commercial terrestrial broadcasters through to a fully digital future.

Under the Communications Act 2003, Ofcom must offer DRLs to the current Channel 3 analogue licensees, Channel 5 and Public Teletext, to replace the current analogue licences. If accepted, the replacement licences must be issued before 29 December this year.

The procedure for replacing Channel 4’s existing licence is different, reflecting its position as a statutory corporation. Ofcom is also consulting on a draft of Channel 4’s DRL and the Channel 4 DRL will be issued before the end of the year.

Ofcom proposes to oblige holders of the Channel 3, Channel 4 and Channel 5 DRLs to achieve coverage that is at least substantially the same as existing analogue coverage. All licensees would also be required to:

* Roll-out Digital Terrestrial Television to 1154 transmission sites

* Co-operate with those organisations involved in the administration, organisation or implementation of digital switchover

* Comply with 31 December 2012 as a backstop date by which all licensees shall be obliged to cease broadcasting their analogue service.