FAQ – Poles
Why are new telegraph poles being installed on my street?
Most homes and businesses are connected to the internet using the copper network. However, unable to cope with modern day connectivity demands, this copper network is currently being phased out with the aim of ‘switching off’ the network by 2030.
Full-fibre is the UK’s fastest and most reliable broadband technology and will replace the copper network, supplying phone lines as well as internet.
Freedom Fibre is supporting the UK government’s aim of deploying this new, gigabit-capable technology nationwide in time for the copper switch-off in 2030.
Wherever possible, Freedom Fibre uses existing telegraph poles to deploy its full-fibre network. Similarly, existing underground infrastructure will be utilised if available. However, in rare cases where there is no suitable infrastructure, installing telegraph poles may be necessary to deploy our network to homes and businesses.
Using telegraph poles as opposed to laying cables underground is much quicker, more-affordable, less-disruptive, and considerably better for the environment. On a recent project, a staggering 2,400kg of carbon was saved by installing telegraph poles as opposed to digging up roads and paths to lay the cable underground.
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Is planning permission required for a new telegraph pole?
Under existing planning rules, masts and poles less than 15 metres high can be installed without being subject to planning consent except those listed under Article 1 (5) of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995.
Despite this, Freedom Fibre is committed to working closely with locally elected representatives (such as your MP and Councillors) and local residents. Freedom Fibre will inform the local authority before a telegraph pole is installed – this is called a Section 5 Notice.
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What will the new poles look like?
We are always conscious to keep the number of telegraph poles required to an absolute minimum, and the fibre cables we use are considerably thinner compared to traditional overhead cables, meaning they are much less noticeable to the eye.
We install traditional wooden poles which is our preferred option.
We also have a limited number of metal poles available should residents prefer.
Can I request the position of a new telegraph pole to be moved?
Freedom Fibre will let residents know where new telegraph poles will be installed. Within reason, telegraph poles can be re-positioned though usually only by a small distance. Please note that we cannot move an existing pole that has already been erected.
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How do I take advantage of your new full-fibre network?
Using our availability checker, you can register your interest in our network and as soon as we’ve finished building to your street, we’ll let you know and send more information about how to get connected.
How can I raise further questions relating to telegraph poles being put up in my street?
If you have further questions about the installation of any new telegraph poles that directly affect you, please complete the online form below and one of our technical support agents will get back to you.
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Customer Careline
If you have any questions regarding the benefits of full-fibre to your home or what’s involved with an installation, please click here and use the form to contact our Careline Team.​
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For any enquiries relating to broadband contracts, billing, or to report a service fault, please contact your internet service provider.