Lawmakers Contemplate Strengthening Regulations Over Telegraph Poles' Development Planning

The installation of telegraph poles in communities across the UK has sparked controversy, with residents voicing their concerns and even taking direct action. One resident, for instance, physically blocked the installation outside his home in protest.

The current rules, governed by the Electronic Communications Code, only require operators to give the local planning authority (LPA) 28 days' notice before installation. However, this has led to concerns about the disruption and impact on the community, prompting calls for stronger regulations.

The debate has been ongoing, involving government departments such as the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), telecommunications companies, local authorities, and regulatory bodies like Ofcom. MP Phil Brickell, for example, has criticised the poles as "inappropriate eyesores" and urged for stricter regulations.

In a recent debate in the House of Commons, Brickell raised concerns about the unsightly and disruptive masts being erected without warning. He was not alone in his concerns, with Laurence Turner, MP for Birmingham Northfield, stating that "much better community engagement is needed over telegraph pole installation."

Turner welcomed Ofcom's ongoing investigation into broadband provider BRSK's compliance with planning regulations in south Birmingham but noted that current legislation is currently being considered by the government to toughen telegraph pole installation.

Ofcom, in response, has emphasised the importance of engaging with local planning authorities before installing network apparatus. They have warned that failure to follow the process set by the Regulations can increase the risk of apparatus adversely impacting on the visual amenity of properties and posing hazards.

The Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms, Sir Chris Bryant, has urged telecom operators to share existing infrastructure and consider underground installation where possible. He acknowledged the public's strong objections and did not rule out changing laws if companies continue to disregard community concerns.

New guidelines are being considered to improve community involvement and the siting process for telegraph pole installation. Companies are expected to engage with local communities to ensure proper placement of telegraph poles without harming the visual appeal or causing obstructions.

The controversy comes after Ofcom initiated an investigation into broadband provider BRSK for potential violations during the installation of telecommunications poles in Birmingham. This investigation highlights the need for improved regulations and community engagement in the process of telegraph pole installation.

In the UK, broadband providers can install telegraph poles under permitted development rights due to the Electronic Communications Code and the Town and Country Planning Order 2015. However, new rules are being proposed to ensure that new poles are only installed if underground alternatives are impractical.

As the debate continues, it is clear that the public's concerns about the impact of telegraph pole installations on their communities are being taken seriously. The government, regulatory bodies, and telecommunications companies are working together to find a solution that balances the need for improved broadband infrastructure with the need for community engagement and minimal disruption.

Lawmakers Contemplate Strengthening Regulations Over Telegraph Poles' Development Planning