New build developments - delivering gigabit-capable connections: consultation analysis

The Consultation

This consultation outlined proposals to amend building standards to ensure that all new build homes are equipped with gigabit-capable digital infrastructure (e.g. infrastructure able to support broadband speeds faster than 1,000 megabits per second (Mbps)) from the outset, with a physical connection made available between a dwelling and the network operators infrastructure, subject to a cost cap. In cases where a connection cannot be provided within the cost cap there will be a requirement to install the passive infrastructure (e.g. ducts) required to facilitate a connection at a later date.

A three-month long consultation was launched to gather views about the proposed regulations and how they would be implemented.

The proposals would amend building standards to require developers to ensure that:

• all new build homes are installed with the gigabit-ready physical infrastructure necessary for gigabit-capable connections
• a gigabit-capable connection is installed in a new build home subject to a £2,000 cost cap per dwelling
• or where a gigabit-capable connection is not being installed, the next fastest broadband connection is installed within the £2,000 cost cap