Installation of Telecommunications Infrastructure

Opened the debate

The right hon. Member for Kingston upon Hull North raised concerns about the lack of legal requirement for consultation and scant procedures for installing telecommunication poles and fibre optic cables in communities, impacting residents' quality of life and property values negatively. She highlighted issues such as the amendment by the coalition Government in 2013 which allowed companies to install telecommunications infrastructure without planning permission or local consultation. Residents affected include those with disabilities facing obstacles due to newly installed poles, businesses experiencing operational disruptions, and homeowners distressed by aesthetics and potential property devaluation. The MP called for the repeal of the 2013 amendment and a statutory requirement for communications network operators to apply for local planning authority permissions before installation.

Government Response

The Minister acknowledged residents' concerns but noted that the Government's digital ambitions aim to ensure widespread, fast connectivity. She highlighted progress made since 2018, with broadband coverage increasing from 6% to 74%. The current legislative framework supports network deployment while recognising community impacts through permitted development rights and regulations requiring operators to engage with local authorities and communities. The Minister encouraged adherence to the cabinet siting and pole siting code of practice. She discussed efforts to facilitate infrastructure sharing via the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act 2022, aiming to reduce new installations. Officials regularly meet Ofcom and telecom companies, including KCOM and Connexin, addressing specific deployment issues in Hull. The Minister emphasised concerns about introducing additional planning bureaucracy due to potential delays and increased costs, affecting connectivity roll-out timelines and affordability.