8.1 Overview

131. The Government’s proposed auction of spectrum in the 2.5 GHz band requires the existing users of this spectrum to cease using the band and for the existing licences to be revoked. The existing licence arrangement is presently used by 10 individuals or organisations for relaying of video signals, typically television, from point to point. The licences provide that parties undertake coordination of usage between themselves to ensure that their needs are met on each occasion of use. Licences of this type are available for 2.5 GHz (O Band), 2.7 GHz (OX Band), and 7 GHz (V Band).

132. This section identifies the present usage and proposes transition plans to facilitate the overall objective of using the 2.5 GHz band for broadband services.

133. The transition plans have been based on existing use being accommodated in alternative frequency bands as envisaged in the Cabinet decisions of December 2006 and May 2007. Other frequency bands which are already available are the 2.7 GHz band (comprising 200 MHz, planned for simplex or duplex) and the 7 GHz band (comprising 70 plus 70 MHz for duplex use). However it may be possible for existing users to consider, either jointly or individually, acquiring suitable spectrum in the planned auction and then operating within such purchased rights. Any such acquisition would need to comply with applicable usage rules. In addition, use of the adjacent 2.4 GHz (ISM) band may be suitable for some usage.