A CALL has been made for a ‘full and proper investigation’ into alternatives to installing Full Fibre poles – with the people of Droitwich given a chance to have their input.
Wooden poles are set to be installed by Full Fibre Ltd on streets across the town, including Suffolk Way, where 94 per cent of people living there and in nearby roads are against the idea.
Residents said they feel, contrary to what Full Fibre has said, an unground installation is feasible.
William Moy, who has led the calls, said: “Full Fibre has stated it can’t fit fibre underground and therefore we will take action to try to stop the project now and request an alternative supplier.
“Full Fibre Ltd has published ‘intention to proceed’ notices and therefore we will have to move quickly.”
Openreach, whose broadband network supports companies including BT, has said it would be starting to build its own full-fibre in Droitwich.
Mr Moy claimed all requests for detail from Full Fibre Ltd as to the need for and placement of poles throughout Primsland Way had been met with ‘uncertainty, confusion and contradiction’.
He further claimed Full Fibre was misusing its powers under the Government approved ‘permitted development’ act and not allowing the use of the Ofcom-approved alternative of underground cabling.
‘Permitted development’ means Full Fibre does not need planning permission from Wychavon District Council to start work on the poles.
Concerns have also been raised that the poles and wiring would be a blight on the landscape and reduce the value of houses.
Written appeals have been submitted to Mid Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston and the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, Michelle Donelan.
A Full Fibre spokesperson said: “We are working hard to bring full-fibre broadband to Droitwich, to future-proof the town for generations to come and ensure it remains a popular place to live and work.
“We are aware that this upgrade can bring a level of disruption and change, and we have focused on working with the communities to ensure they have the opportunity to influence our build.
“Poles form a significant part of UK infrastructure and most people in the UK are served by poles – up to 80 per cent in many areas.
“We hope Droitwich can see the huge benefits our network brings.”
