Head of Distribution Technology at BBC Operations, Graham Plumb, has indicated that Freeview HD could be with us by the 2nd of December.

He also announced plans to introduce "an upgrade to the Digital UK postcode database, which will tell viewers when they can expect their transmitter to be upgraded to Freeview HD."

The TV regulator OFCOM has granted High Definition Freeview licenses to the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, S4C and Channel 5.

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.

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