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. techUK will be hosting a webinar on 29 April to provide guidance to members on responding to the consultation.
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:
For comments or questions, please contact [email protected] and [email protected].
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Contact the team
Josh Turpin
Josh Turpin
Josh joined techUK as a Programme Manager for Telecoms and Net Zero in August 2024.
In this role, working jointly across the techUK Telecoms and Climate Programmes, Josh is responsible for leading on telecoms infrastructure deployment and uptake and supporting innovation opportunities, as well as looking at how the tech sector can be further utilised in the UK’s decarbonisation efforts.
Prior to joining techUK, Josh’s background was in public affairs and communications, working for organisations across a diverse portfolio of sectors including defence, telecoms and infrastructure; aiding clients through stakeholder engagement, crisis communications, media outreach as well as secretariat duties.
Outside of work, Josh has a keen interest in music, painting and sailing.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- Phone:
- 020 7331 2038
- LinkedIn:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-turpin/
Tales Gaspar
Tales Gaspar
Tales has a background in law and economics, with previous experience in the regulation of new technologies and infrastructure.
In the UK and Europe, he offered consultancy on intellectual property rights of cellular and IoT technologies and on the regulatory procedures at the ITU as a Global Fellow at the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI).
Tales has an LL.M in Law and Business by the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV) and an MSc in Regulation at the London School of Economics, with a specialization in Government and Law.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- Phone:
- +44 (0) 0207 331 2000
- Website:
- www.techUK.org
- LinkedIn:
- www.linkedin.com/in/talesngaspar
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