The UK’s telecoms regulator, Ofcom, is proposing to take part of the radio spectrum band away from its current owners, then auctioning it off in a bid top promote the development of 3G services.

A consultation programme has been launched covering the 900 MHz and 1,800MHz bands currently used by Vodafone, O2, T-Mobile and Orange for their 2G services. Under present regulations, the mobile operators cannot use these parts of the spectrum for 3G services.

Potentially, using the 900MHz band would enable a far-reaching 3G network to be built, using relatively few base stations – ensuring that the service could reach rural locations. That band is currently used by Vodafone and O2, who were given the licenses to use the spectrum in 1985.

While all operators have been lobbying Ofcom to allow them to use their 2G spectrum to develop 3G services, Ofcom’s current proposals could end up costing the operators millions. Under the new proposals, Ofcom will in future auction off the reclaimed spectrum.

“Our proposals are designed to make more spectrum available for high-speed mobile broadband services across the whole of the UK and to ensure that the UK mobile market continues to be one of the most competitive and innovative in the world,” said Ed Richards, Ofcom’s CEO.