Shortage of landline numbers sparks major changes to dialling codes

March 9, 2012 - PRLog -- A worrying shortage of landline numbers is going to see some big changes when people dial local telephone numbers, forcing callers to include the area code for the first time.  Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch which is assigned the 01202 prefix is first area to see this big change, with local residents and businesses soon having to use the 01202 code to dial landline numbers in the same area.

The change, due in the summer, will allow Ofcom to introduce new numbers starting with ‘0’ or ‘1’, e.g. 01202 012345 or 01202 123456, substantially increasing the availability of local 01202 telephone numbers.  Without the change, the Bournemouth area is expected to run out of numbers by the summer, although this problem isn’t limited just to Dorset.  Brighton and Hove, Aberdeen, Bradford and Cambridge have all been affected by a shortage in local telephone numbers, which is bad news for consumers and businesses alike.  

Once the changes come into effect, local callers will have to include the area code to ensure the call gets through.  If they don’t, the network provider will think the caller is dialling either a mobile or direct enquiries.  Taking this into consideration, Ofcom spokeswoman Elizabeth de Winton said: “We will work with telecoms providers on a marketing campaign to inform the communities well in advance of the date they must start to use the code.”

Luckily for you, we still have local numbers for the Bournemouth area despite the shortage, in addition to Brighton and Hove, Aberdeen, Bradford and Cambridge.  Because these numbers are ‘virtual’ (they sit on an existing landline or mobile) we supply them with free call stats, complimentary Voicemail to Email and instant call divert – services you don’t get with normal landline numbers.  What’s more, because these numbers are virtual, your office doesn’t have to be physically located in the town or city you want a corresponding number for – perfect for companies looking to expand their customer base but avoiding the expense of opening new offices.  To find out more, please call 0333 1234 034 or visit this page http://www.windsor-telecom.co.uk/01numbers-02numbers.php