Lack of free spectrum limits DTT growth

The broadcast regulator Conseil Supérieur de l’Audiovisuel (CSA) has informed the French Prime Minister that the population coverage of DTT will only reach 70% of the population by March 2007 instead of the planned 85%. In an official letter the CSA says that the planned for coverage is not possible due to the lack of available frequencies in some regions bordering other countries. Negotiations on frequency allocations begun in November still had not reached a satisfactory conclusion by January 2006. Agreements after this date do not allow sufficient time for digitisation of transmitter sites by the March 2007 deadline. It is expected that only 15 sites will now be digitised by March 2007 instead of the 40 required to comfortable meet the initial plan for 85% coverage.
Source: CSA website
Item added: 12th April 2006