Telecoms Access Review: 2026-31

Ofcom has published its long-awaited Telecoms Access Review, setting out the proposed regulatory framework for fixed telecoms markets from April 2026 to March 2031. See below for more information on the review itself, as well as the work techUK will be doing to ensure that its members’ views are heard by Ofcom.

The review builds on the 2021 Wholesale Fixed Telecoms Market Review (WFTMR) and aims to sustain investment in gigabit-capable networks, ensuring faster and more reliable broadband access for businesses and consumers.

With the UK having made progress towards full-fibre coverage, the review tackles key challenges such as customer migration from legacy networks, wholesale pricing, and business connectivity.

Some highlights in terms of progress made since the first review into the market includes:

Full-fibre coverage nearly tripling to 69% of premises
Gigabit-capable networks now reach 83% of premises, up from 40% in 2021
Annual fibre investment has ranged from £3bn-£6bn
70% of premises can now access at least two networks
Business connectivity has expanded with growing leased line competition

Despite this, full-fibre take-up remains at 35%, and new entrants still face challenges competing with legacy providers. Ofcom’s proposals aim to address these issues while ensuring continued investment and competition.

Key proposals from the Telecoms Access Review 2026 include:

1. Openreach Infrastructure Access

Openreach must continue providing Physical Infrastructure Access (PIA) for competitors to use its telegraph poles and ducts.
Ofcom has adjusted PIA rental charges but largely maintains its 2021 approach.

2. Wholesale Broadband Regulation

Two regulatory areas will apply:
Area 2 (90% of UK premises) – Increased competition potential; price caps on superfast broadband (up to 80 Mbps)
Area 3 (10% of UK premises) – Lower competition potential; Openreach can recover full-fibre rollout costs while maintaining consumer price protections

3. Fair Wholesale Pricing & Competition Protections

Openreach will be restricted from offering geographic discounts that could harm competition
Extended notice periods for commercial terms, from 90 to 120 days, to allow for regulatory scrutiny

4. Transition from Copper to Full Fibre

Ofcom will progressively transfer regulation from copper to fibre services as migration continues
Openreach is not expected to maintain legacy copper networks indefinitely where full fibre is available

5. Business Connectivity & Leased Lines

Ofcom will continue regulating leased lines based on competition levels:
High Network Reach (9% of postcodes) – Openreach must offer fair and reasonable pricing
Area 2 (42% of postcodes) – Regulated access with inflation-adjusted price caps
Area 3 (46% of postcodes) – Openreach must provide dark fibre and fair leased line pricing

6. Inter-Exchange Connectivity (IEC) Market

Ofcom proposes deregulation in exchanges with two or more competitors
Where Openreach has one or no competitor, it must provide dark fibre at cost-based pricing

7. Quality of Service (QoS) Standards

Existing repair and installation obligations remain in place
New backstop QoS standards introduced for Area 3, ensuring minimum service levels in regions with fewer choices

When this review’s period ends in 2031, Ofcom has stated that it will continue to monitor investment and competition in the market. Should competition remain limited across the country, further regulation could be introduced to ensure that Openreach pricing remains fair. Ofcom has once again reaffirmed its commitment to the ‘fair bet’ principle, ensuring that long-term investment in fibre remains viable.

Next steps and techUK engagement

techUK will be reviewing the details of this consultation and engaging with members to develop a response. We welcome initial feedback and will also be organising a webinar in the coming weeks to discuss Ofcom’s proposals in more detail.

Consultation deadline: 12 June 2025

For comments or questions, please contact [email protected] and [email protected].

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