Broadcaster Channel Five has been given a provisional green light to launch high-definition (HD) services on digital TV from 2010.

Ofcom has granted the license on the proviso that the company will meet certain criteria related to its application by the end of this year.

However, this is only a license for a HD channel on Freeview, the UK land based digitla TV service.

Viewers will be able to access the new service, which could mean shows including CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and UEFA Europa League coverage will be in higher quality, using a HD-ready TV and set-top box.

Philip Graf, chairman of Ofcom’s content board, said “It means more choice for TV viewers who will be able to watch in high definition popular programming, free to air through their television aerials.”

The “bidding” process for the multiplex / frequency now means that BBC, ITV C4 and Five are all able to offer HD services on Freeview in the near future.

There is no indication about a Five HD service available on satellite.