Ofcom proposes way to cut bill for new broadband by 80 per cent

Re-use of utilities infrastructure could cut 80 per cent from the cost of next-generation broadband, according to Ofcom.

The regulator launched proposals yesterday for ensuring fibre optic cables are laid to the 3 million new homes the government aims for by 2020. It is also considering whether use of existing telecoms ducts, water pipes, electricity cables and even sewer systems could help mitigate investment costs of up to £15bn to roll out fibre nationally. “We must be sure we are not missing a big trick here. We know that a lot of the costs are in the civil engineering,” Ed Richards, the Ofcom chief executive, said.