Broadband providers going underground for fibre optic broadbandMonday, February 8th 2010 Broadband providers across the UK could be set to use underground ducts owned by BT to launch their own fibre optic networks. While the relationship between different internet service providers can be pretty frosty at times, there are signs that the issue of fibre optic broadband provision could bring them closer together.
The Financial Times has revealed that BT is considering opening up its own underground network of tunnels to rivals, which would then be able to run their own super-fast services through the ducts.
Such a move would be a big boost for many broadband providers, as they would be able to avoid the potentially costly task of digging up pavements to install such networks.
Fees would be involved in the offering, which would be used to boost BT's introduction of a high-speed broadband network.
Ian Livingston, chief executive of BT, told the newspaper: "We told Ofcom last year we're willing to provide open access to our ducts . . . and we are working with them on how to achieve it."
The likes of TalkTalk have shown interest recently about launching their own fibre optic broadband services, so BT's offer could prove very attractive in the long term to firms.
However, another interesting aspect is whether BT's plan will mark a new age of collaboration in the increasingly competitive broadband market. |
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