OFCOM announces plans to make sure local phone numbers don't run out

OFCOM announced this week that they will start rolling out a new system next year for local phone numbers whereby you will have to dial the full area code for the number you are phoning even if you are only phoning the person next door. The idea behind it is that numbers are running out for some area codes, with many providers of virtual numbers keeping a large stock in reserve, thus limiting the amount available. However, if everyone dialling a number in that area has to use the area code then they will be able to introduce 0 and 1 as the first digit of the 6 digits that follow the area code, greatly increasing the amount available and making sure that there is still a large amount of competition. Bournemouth will be first, with a full map of areas on the OFCOM website.