Ofcom sets out regulation to push UK gigabit broadband to 'final phase' | Computer Weekly

"Ofcom has set out the regulatory structure which it believes will drive full-fibre gigabit broadband to reach almost all UK homes and businesses over the next two years. According to projections in its Connected nations: Planned network deployments 2025 report, given what is described as 'the right support', full-fibre is set to reach almost 29 million properties by the end of 2027, equivalent to well over nine in 10."

"Ofcom says the next frontier for fibre is customers taking it up, with more than half of those eligible for an upgrade yet to make the change. It observed that people and businesses have more choice between broadband providers than ever before - around three-quarters have access to at least two networks, and nearly a third of the country can choose between three."

"At the heart of the announcement is guidance on how Ofcom regulates UK broadband leader Openreach, building on its 2021 regulations regarding the BT-owned company. Ofcom claims that since it introduced a new regulatory framework, it has driven competition between different providers."

Ofcom has established a regulatory structure through its Telecoms Access Review 2026-31 designed to accelerate full-fibre gigabit broadband deployment across the UK. Projections indicate full-fibre will reach approximately 29 million properties by end of 2027, covering over 90% of UK homes and businesses. The regulator emphasizes that while gigabit rollout nears completion, adoption remains the next frontier, with over half of eligible customers yet to upgrade. Competition has intensified, with three-quarters of properties accessing at least two networks and nearly a third choosing between three providers. Ofcom's guidance on regulating Openreach, building on 2021 frameworks, aims to maintain competitive pressure and drive investment across the broadband sector.

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