Ofcom is consulting on its approach to regulating BT Openreach on the basis on which it allows other communication providers to access its broadband network, with a view to encouraging competition in fibre services. The consultation outlines a regional approach to regulation depending on the level of competition in the provision of large scale networks. Whilst BT will be regulated in areas where it has no competition, at a network level, the proposals are intended to encourage BT to build fibre networks in remote areas by allowing it to recover build costs through wholesale charges.

The deadline for responses has been suspended due to the COVID-19 crisis.