RDAs and Ofcom central to BT’s fibre-optic plans
20th August 2008
Both Ofcom and Regional Development Agencies (RDA) are integral to BT’s plans to roll-out a £1.5 billion high-speed fibre-optic network across the UK, the telecoms giant has recently emphasised.
BT has underlined the fact that consultation with RDAs throughout the country as well as the regulatory body Ofcom will be vital in the decision-making process of deciding which areas will benefit from a super-fast broadband connection.
Speaking to Tech Radar BT Group media relations manager Mike Witts explained: "Essentially, we intend to engage RDAs [Regional Development Authorities] and other appropriate bodies, and the scale and nature of the roll-out of fibre will depend largely on the discussions we have with them.
"Our investment depends upon regulatory certainty from Ofcom, but if we get a green light we will work with the government, RDAs etc to determine which areas benefit first."
Newly-built areas, such as in new-build areas, such as Ebbsfleet and the Olympic Village, look set to enjoy the quickest connections, with speeds of up to 100 Mb expected to be provided.