This statement sets out Ofcom’s (the Office of Communications) decision in relation to the conservation of numbers in 27 geographic areas in addition to existing conservation measures. It follows on from our consultation Conserving geographic numbers: proposals for geographic conservation measures in additional areas, 25 May 2006 (“the May 2006 consultation”). That document sought views on Ofcom’s proposals to ensure the ongoing availability of number blocks to meet communication providers’ needs in 27 areas experiencing number block shortage.
This document is solely concerned with the designation of new areas in need of conservation measures. It is not a consultation on changes to geographic numbers or area codes. Conservation measures are designed to manage communications providers’ demand for geographic numbers without the need for more disruptive action to increase the supply of numbers. Ofcom, therefore, favours the use of conservation measures as they incur the least cost and disruption and are particularly beneficial for consumers as such measures cause no adverse impact. Indeed, they benefit consumers by ensuring that sufficient and appropriate numbers are available in all geographic areas thereby promoting competition in the provision of communications services.