Freeview HD plan approved

The BBC, ITV and Channel 4 will all be launching high definition channels on Freeview from 2009, it was announced today. The controversial plan will see standard definition channels shifted around various multiplexes to clear space for a "HD multiplex" carrying three HD channels. According to Ofcom, this figure could increase to four channels as newer technologies become available. The HD multiplex will be phased-in around the country between 2009 and 2012, with special arrangements being made for temporary broadcasts of HD services to cover major events like the 2010 World Cup nationwide.