The TV regulator OFCOM has granted High Definition Freeview licenses to ITV and Channel 4. This follows provision for BBC1 HD on Freeview announced previously.

The new Freeview HD channels will be introduced on a region by region basis in conjunction with the roll-out of digital TV across the UK. The Granada region is scheduled to receive the first HD programmes on Freeview from late 2009, followed by Wales, Scotland and the West Country in 2010. Complete nationwide coverage should be in place by 2012.

Channel 4 will broadcast an HD simulcast of its main channel while ITV will transmit their peak time schedule in HD and offer on-demand services and sub-let space to other broadcasters off-peak. Although consumers will be able to access the service with existing aerials they will need to purchase a new Freeview HD set-top box.

Freeview currently has a UK coverage of 73%. The alternative satellite based service, Freesat, reaches 98% of UK homes and already offers BBC1 and ITV in high definition.