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Ofcom Proposes Five-Year Plan to Bolster UK Broadband Competition

The regulator aims to maintain rules for BT’s Openreach while addressing challenges faced by smaller broadband providers and preparing for potential market consolidation.

The higher-speed network could be in place at 96 per cent of properties by 2027, increasing from the current 69 per cent, Ofcom said

Overview

  • Ofcom has outlined draft proposals to maintain its regulatory framework for BT’s Openreach for the next five years to promote competition and investment in full-fibre broadband.
  • The UK’s full-fibre broadband rollout is on track to reach 96% of homes and businesses by 2027, with nearly 70% of households already covered.
  • Alternative network providers (alt-nets) face financial pressures due to rising interest rates and modest consumer uptake, leading to expectations of industry consolidation.
  • Ofcom is exploring a 'supplier of last resort' regime to safeguard consumers in the event of broadband provider collapses.
  • The consultation on Ofcom’s proposals will run until summer 2025, with final decisions expected in March 2026.