INDUSTRY News
Evolving Connectivity Show 2024, March 21 Join the CAI as they explore the cutting- edge of technology, innovation and
our partnership with SONOS; and their live demo sessions will be a highlight of the show. Make sure you register for this beforehand as they are proving very popular!” Don’t miss out on the opportunity to shape the future and be at the forefront of digital transformation. Secure your FREE spot now and be part of the journey towards a more connected world!
n Engage in meaningful conversations on the future of technology n Spark collaborations that will drive tomorrow’s solutions Event organiser Amanda Ward said, “Every year the CAI show grows in both size and calibre and our seminar programme, ‘From Here to the Holograms’, is particularly notable this year. We are also delighted to announce
sustainability. From ground-breaking tech showcases to insightful discussions with industry leaders. Why attend? n Network with pioneers and disruptors n Experience the latest innovations first- hand
www.evolvingconnectivity.com/index.php/visitors/visitor-registration
Merseyside town clashes with Openreach Openreach is at the centre of controversy in Southport, Merseyside, regarding its alleged side-stepping of rules on cable of local tensions. Damien Moore wrote to residents advising that “unfortunately, Openreach has now published a response
areas. Such practices not only pose safety hazards but also detract from the town’s aesthetic appeal, something this genteel seaside resort prides itself on, raising questions about Openreach’s adherence to regulatory standards. In addition, there are allegations of inadequate consultation with local stakeholders including residents and municipal authorities; all of the above culminated in a stand-off between fibre engineers and local residents in late February, who refused to be moved from the sites of new 9m poles which were meant to go into the ground. Cars were parked deliberately at the ends of local roads, preventing Openreach’s access. Residents objected to aerial installation of cables, arguing they were unsightly, unsympathetic to local surroundings and threatening to wildlife. Local police were called and the protest eventually dispersed, but Openreach remain undeterred, claiming that Southport is badly underserved by superfast broadband and will continue regardless
confirming they will continue with the installation of aerial fibre optic cabling”.
installation, culminating in a recent outburst in Parliament by the local Conservative representative, Damian Moore MP. Under pressure to connect homes quickly, Openreach accelerated its infrastructure deployment to satisfy a surge in demand for high speed broadband, but accusations have emerged suggesting that the company has been circumventing regulatory guidelines in its pursuit of rapid expansion. Southport, like anywhere else in the UK is subject to stringent regulations aimed at safeguarding environmental and aesthetic concerns. These govern everything from the digging of trenches to the positioning of equipment, ensuring that any infrastructure deployment is conducted in a manner that minimises disruption and preserves the town’s visual appeal.
The company emphasises its commitment to delivering reliable
connectivity and has weakly argued that certain deviations from regulatory norms are necessary to expedite deployment without compromising on quality. Moore told Parliament, “Regrettably, in my constituency of Southport, it would appear that Openreach has sidestepped its own procedures for gaining community agreement, disrespecting the will of local residents.” At a time where customer service is becoming the only thing that differentiates one network supplier from another, these actions seem oddly tone-deaf and unnecessarily aggressive. It remains to be seen how inflamed Southport residents respond to these developments.
There are reports of cables being strung across streets or left exposed in public
MARCH 2024 Volume 46 No.1
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