FTTP trial - Bradwell Abbey, Milton Keynes - work completed?

Hi there,

There were a couple of posts about this fibre all-the-way-to the premises (FTTP) trial about a month ago:
http://forums.thinkbroadband.com/fibre/3918409-any-w...
http://forums.thinkbroadband.com/fibre/t/3920413-re-...
http://forums.thinkbroadband.com/fibre/t/3920474-re-...

There has been talk in the news about this for a year or two (I assume BT have been putting out press releases) and I understood Bradwell Abbey to be only the second location at which BT are trying FTTP (they already did somewhere in Kent??), but I gathered that the work only started recently - perhaps only in the last couple of months.

So about 3 weeks ago I contacted one of the ISPs who are involved in the trial and they told me that fibre isn't available to my flat yet, but to keep in touch and email them once a week because they were getting availability updates from BT every Thursday. The next week when I emailed them, they replied that "BT have done all the work in Milton Keynes for FTTP", that there would be no further updates and to consider their other services!

I'm a little confused by this, as it would seem to be a very limited trial if, after less than a month, they've stopped laying fibre and are no longer extending their coverage! I live in the City Centre, only about 2 miles from the exchange, so would have hoped my prospects for FTTP would have been quite good.

I have spoken to another ISP in the same time period and they told me that one of their techs also lives on the Bradwell Exchange and was receiving FTTP at home, on this trial, but could tell me little more.

So does anyone know anything about this, please?

Did this ISP perhaps just tell me to go away because I was being annoying? I didn't think I was being so! I'm actually not that fussed about faster speeds, but it would be nice - my chief concern is that I'm thinking of changing ISP within the next few months, and I don't want to get tied into a contract with one ISP, only to find that another is offering a much faster service in the area. It'd just be nice to know what's going on! (although I'll bet that's what all the faster broadband naggers say!)

My experience with BT's broadband trials was that I was on the "wires only" trial several (7 or 8??) years ago, and I was subsequently aware of one for ADSL2 or 2+. So I guess I may be kinda acting as if all BT's broadband trials naturally roll out into full-scale service - perhaps that may not be expected to be the case in this instance?

Thanks in advance for any inside info,

Stroller.


EDIT: I've done some more trawling of the net since posting and it seems like Dave Tomlinson at Plus.Net has a fairly decent idea of the geography of the FTTP trial. He's a poster in one of the other threads here that I referenced earlier, so <animated smiley avatar waving> "hi, Dave, I hope you can advise me!"

Edited by deleted (Sat 27-Nov-10 01:12:47)

Maybe what is meant is that the required number of triallists are now on board?

The FTTP build-out in MK has been going on for a number of month, although in recent weeks there has been very little news on new area's going live, and OpenReach working on FTTP.

Although if you are in a covered area, you can still get onto the FTTP trial, but only if you line is covered - check one of these line checkers: BT.com or Trefor.net. You can get a list of the estates that have FTTP coverage on this site Super-fast broadband is coming to MK

A few things have become apparent over the course of the trial:
- the trial will only cover a limited number of estates initially (and not even all houses in those estates).
- the trial def does not include FTTP to apartments/flats as this is better suited to FTTC
- not all estates served by Bradwell Abbey exchange will get FTTP,
- it's not clear if/when FTTC will be installed for those who don't get FTTP.

So I would say that if you have not seen any OpenReach team laying Fibre in your estate, you are quite probably NOT in the FTTP trial area, and also probably not served by one of the surrounding exchanges that is due to get FTTC on (or prob after) 30-Dec-2010.

When OR/BT started the trial, there was a very short list of estates included (about 3-5 depending who you believe), but they said more would be added as the trial progressed. So the question: are the 13 estates now receiving FTTP the already extended list? If these 13 were only the intended initial coverage, then they may do more estates after they have completed the FTTC work. Otherwise, they have covered as many as they intend to for the trial and the rest of us have to wait for the trial to conclude (Mar-Jun 2011 depending who you believe) to see what we will get.

Per the latest exchange coverage list from OpenReach there is no mention of FTTC or even a FTTP live date for Bradwell Abbey, so who knows. But if you want to help let BT know we want FTTx, vote on the BT Race-to-infinity site. This may help to secure FTTC for Bradwell Abbey after the FTTP trial finishes.

And in closing, on the MK Council website above they list an email address for queries, and although they won't give you much more info that you can find on this forum (and PlusNet), they have said they they use the queries to gauge demand. So def email them if you want FTTx.

Edited by deleted (Mon 29-Nov-10 12:42:33)

Thanks for the reply, Bruce.

The City Centre isn't mentioned on the council's site, so I've emailed them.

It seems kinda odd that Fishermead & Oldbrook themselves have not been given coverage - that makes sense on its own, since they're so close to the exchange - but that Campbell Park has been.

If Campbell Park has received FTTP, then that's probably people 200 yards from me!

Some of the choices for which area's got FTTP escape us all. I am in Broughton, and in a new build with brand new ducts etc (so dead easy install), and they left us out. (I heard OR lost the bid to cable FTTP in Brooklands - so maybe they are just sticking one to the new build developers, as this is clearly a nice selling point)

But to be fair, this is a test of "FTTP to Brownfields": Maybe they were really only tring to test what it would be like to install FTTP to real brownfield properties. New builds are excluded, as they have been designed with this tech in mind, so nothing to test, just roll out when they are ready. Apartments are excluded, as they know they can't get the fibre all they way to each unit, so they just do FTTC when they are ready.

But sign up to MKBAG to get regular info and keep pestering ISP's, MP's and Council (and get your neighbors to do the same). That is the best way to keep up the interest from consumers and providers.

Edited by deleted (Mon 29-Nov-10 16:56:13)

In case you missed the chatter on MKBAG, there has been some further information on the Trial, specifically on Broughton and Broughton Gate (the new build section of Broughton):

BT/OR had originally planned on covering 13,500 properties in Bradwell Abbey [with FTTP], but due to problems with laying Fibre, have had to reduce this to around 10,500. BT have now completed the rollout in Bradwell Abbey however they said they will revisit the area [Broughton Gate] at some point to see if they can rollout FTTC, although this is unlikely to be before 2012

Broughton had been included in the original phase of the trial roll-out. However, this has changed and Openreach have indicated that Broughton, NOT Broughton Gate, would be considered to be part of the planning for the following programme of deployment.

Broughton (old) should get FTTP either as part of the extension of the trial area, or an additional area once the trial is complete.

Broughton Gate is stuck with ADSL for a while, while Middleton, Brooklands and eventually (old) Broughton get FTTP.

Talk about the poor neighbor... And I wander where the 'digital' divide will be, especially for those on or near Milton Road, as you could be Broughton Gate but just over the road from Broughton (old).

For for those equally unlucky people outside the FTTP areas, 2012 is looking like the target date. So make sure you get onto your MP's, MK Council, BT Race-to-infinity etc to see if we can convince them otherwise.

Edited by deleted (Wed 01-Dec-10 10:44:05)

Some recent activity in Broughton...

BT Openreach vans all over Broughton today. The guys were working at the enterance between Tongwell street and Milton Road. Saw the big van with compressor so stopped and had a chat with the guys. They confirmed installation of fibre for FTTP. Unfortunately they didn't know anything about FTTC or exact location of where the fibre will run to. One of the guys said all of Broughton will have it within a couple of months.

The real question is their definition of Broughton. And I hope they are not doing what we last heard, FTTP in old Broughton and nothing for new build area till 2012. So very keen to see if they do any works on Watercress Way, the main road serving the new build area.

Interestingly, one person in Monkston Park in a flat, who was booked to get FTTP from Plusnet, was told by the engineer on install day they won't to flats AND that the FTTP to flats would not be trialled till JULY. That is way better that FTTC in 2012. Wander if they use FTTB (building)?

So after BT fibre crew turned up and the engineers flat comment, I am hoping they have a better plan for our area now

you wont be seeing fttp on internally fed flats anytime soon i would not think.

though i may be wrong

In reply to a post by andyboygsi:

you wont be seeing fttp on internally fed flats anytime soon i would not think.

I think it was pretty clear that flats were better suited to FTTC, and that was partly confirmed by BT/OR indicating (indirectly) that the newbuild area would get FTTC eventually. But I think mixing FTTC and FTTP is less than ideal, and maybe FTTB is the better solution to fibre flats that are in the same DP as FTTP.

It's all going to be down to scale.
A few flats over shops is a minor issue for FTTP install.
A large block with limited ducting access, FTTC no question.
Make that a block of 20 apartments in the same road as detached houses, and the solution is not clear.

But that should be the point of the trial, try and see what works.

I've read those messages too about the flocking of openreach vans on Watercress Way...and if they could be re-directed to Countess Way!

In reply to a post by bruce007:

In reply to a post by andyboygsi:

you wont be seeing fttp on internally fed flats anytime soon i would not think.

I think it was pretty clear that flats were better suited to FTTC, and that was partly confirmed by BT/OR indicating (indirectly) that the newbuild area would get FTTC eventually. But I think mixing FTTC and FTTP is less than ideal, and maybe FTTB is the better solution to fibre flats that are in the same DP as FTTP.

It's all going to be down to scale.
A few flats over shops is a minor issue for FTTP install.
A large block with limited ducting access, FTTC no question.
Make that a block of 20 apartments in the same road as detached houses, and the solution is not clear.

But that should be the point of the trial, try and see what works.

So how about a block of six flats? with a bt manhole cover right infront of it and a cabinet about 150m away?

Question - how long is it before a new build site becomes a brownfield site?!

Just had word that Openreach are dealing with Broughton, but not Broughton Gate...I'm very annoyed.

I mean, Broughton Gate is newer but why do half a job?

The council don't wan't a digital divide, they've got one already.

Milton Keynes is a patchwork of initiatives and trials, you have wimax or had some plans for it in once part of the place.

The nature of the MK layout means that many areas are effectively standalone too.

I heard back from MK Council today, and they confirmed that FTTP is going into (old) Broughton ONLY.....

Broughton Gate not on the work sheet yet. So anyone spotting some BT/OR work going on in the new build area, please post, as the guys doing the work seem to be the more reliable indicator of what is going on.

We still don't know where the DIGITAL DIVIDE will be, but it has at least moved.

So anyone considering buying a house in Broughton Gate, tell the developers you are going elsewhere... I am sure they had a hand this this outcome.

technically all it would take is to install a pole outside the flats and run fibre dropwire to the premesis (we have OH fibre round here feeding the doctors surgery with a yellow sticker on the pole warning engineers fibre drops in use).

Just a clarification on the feedback from MK Council - BT have not decided on excluding Broughton Gate from FTTP, but still not clear how far into Broughton the FTTP coverage will go.

So please keep posting the Fibre crew sightings. this is the best indication of who is getting FTTP.

Although from the BT forum, once fellow broughtonite spoke to an egineer, and was told that the Broughton FTTP would be live mid April.

sorry to jump on this thread is there any info yet on highams park fttp

Have not seen any updates for that area, but keep an eye on the BT line checker and be on the lookout for the Fibre Vans. Those seem to be the best indicator of what is going on.

Also go back to the fibre Trial managers at Plusnet/Zen/A&A etc, if you direct a query to them, they may have more info.

According to the engineers working in Broughton Square, FTTP will be installed in Broughton, Broughton Village and Broughton Gate....

Now let's hope that is true and timely..

In reply to a post by bruce007:

According to the engineers working in Broughton Square, FTTP will be installed in Broughton, Broughton Village and Broughton Gate....

Now let's hope that is true and timely..

Champers will stay in the fridge for now...

Another person spoke to engineers and they reconfirmed, and gave indication that trial connection should be possible in about a week.
I hope that means they move to the next bit of Broughton (Gate) to start putting in the main fibre feeds.

So it's the BT manholes on the pavements to watch out for rather than the green cabinets?

Correct, they will pull/push the main fibre through the ducts under the roads and side walks, and install a number of splitters under those twin man holes. Each splitter serves about 128 connections.

Once your local splitter is commisioned, you can try to get on the trial, and then they come and run the fibre from the splitter to your property.

So keep an eye for the big Fibre trucks delivering the fibre and the engineers installing the splitters. You can they start checking the adsl checker to see when this is available to you, and they get onto the ISP's to get connected.
Checked is updated about 2 weeks in advance of being available, so the Fibre trucks are still the best early sign of a high speed future.

Well it'll be noticeable if and when they do as it's right next to our postboxes!

Won't need a telescope that's for sure.gionstis veritatis

UPDATE >>> I did a cli check for the shops (budgens) and it does say its FTTP enabled!!
The Chip shop however isnt (so far) nor my house which is the new part of Broughton Village. Noticed the BT vans have disappeared, has anyone seen them elsewhere in broughton.

Not seen any parked up, do see them driving about BG as people are moving in...keeping 'em peeled...

Hmm, seems to have gone a bit quiet, not seen any activity near or on Countess Way....

In reply to a post by Anonymous:

Hmm, seems to have gone a bit quiet, not seen any activity near or on Countess Way....

Yep, nothing at the moment...

Unless they wait until I've gone out and then come out of their hiding place...!

Contacted Andrews & Arnold to see if they had any news, but no...and referred me to a BT online checker...!

Edited by deleted (Thu 14-Apr-11 11:42:01)

Since the first flurry of BT/OR vans in Broughton (old), there has been nothing. The live dates quoted have come and gone, and more nothing. Even the ADSL checker that was showing FTTC for a few post codes in the area that presumably got fibe, is only showing ADSL now. Anyone in Broughton got fibre yet?

Did they give up and leave? Or have they stopped making areas where they deploy FTTP available for the trial, and we have to wait for FTTP to go live before it is made available (last I heard, expected July).

FTTC product is due to launch on Plusnet Apr 19, so at least that will become easier to get if you are in the right area.

I'm in the process of moving ISPs from BT to PlusNet, cheaper and more download quota per month - but still ADSL on my 10km line from Fishermead...when it's only just under 6km by road..shows just how much longer the lines are...

Does seem all has gone a bit quiet...I'm reading of people in Crownhill who are just being connected to infinity...who knows, it might all move East at some point.

Edited by deleted (Thu 14-Apr-11 13:56:04)

Looks like the only fibre I'll be getting for the time being will be in my breakfast bowl

Having heard what needs done to get FTTP installed, I'm glad I am on FTTC. They had to dig up the drive of someone my wife works with to get the fibre in and took something like 4 days in total.

Couldnt have all that going on!

Send BT our way, Broughton Gate has been fitted for fibre! The splitter cabintes are in the sidewalks and the ducts to external NTE on the houses all ready to receive.

But at the rate they are depoying in MK, we may skip FTTx alltogether and get the next technology.

I'll even make them a cup of tea.

I'm in Broughton Gate but our developer called it Broughton Chase to make it sound posh...

Nothing exiting to report, but I did notice that the BT Post Code line checker is showing FTTC again for a number of post codes in Broughton, which seemed to have received FTTP a few months back (MK10 9N/R).

This was the case soon after the work started, then the line checked went back to ADSL only. Now FTTC is back and even the Broughton Gate postcodes have FTTC blurb (MK10 7A/D).

Phone number and address still show ADSL only. But some movement is slightly better than. but I have not spotted any more BT/OR work activity in the area for the last too many weeks.

In reply to a post by bruce007:

Nothing exiting to report, but I did notice that the BT Post Code line checker is showing FTTC again for a number of post codes in Broughton, which seemed to have received FTTP a few months back (MK10 9N/R).

This was the case soon after the work started, then the line checked went back to ADSL only. Now FTTC is back and even the Broughton Gate postcodes have FTTC blurb (MK10 7A/D).

Phone number and address still show ADSL only. But some movement is slightly better than. but I have not spotted any more BT/OR work activity in the area for the last too many weeks.

I'm still keeping an eye, Openreach vans are still coming to Broughton Gate to sort out new residents...feels like we'll be waiting until after the other exchanges serving have their cabinets FTTC'd.

Yep my postcode says yes...but my phone number says no....

Interesting, I have a weekly call every Thursday and regular ask the question about what's happening to the areas in Bradwell Abbey that didn't get FTTP so will ask again this week.

In reply to a post by DaveTomlinson:

Interesting, I have a weekly call every Thursday and regular ask the question about what's happening to the areas in Bradwell Abbey that didn't get FTTP so will ask again this week.

how much dose the cpe cost? (To replace)

In reply to a post by DaveTomlinson:

Interesting, I have a weekly call every Thursday and regular ask the question about what's happening to the areas in Bradwell Abbey that didn't get FTTP so will ask again this week.

Good on you sir from someone whose just moved from BT to Plusnet....sitting in Broughton Gate at the end of a 10km phone line from SMBA, hoping that Openreach will come along and do something in this half built eastern backwater of MK ! Keep badgering them and eventually they'll either sort it out or stop answering the phone

Edited by deleted (Tue 10-May-11 11:46:54)

interesting comment from BT forum

Just spoke to a BT engineer in Broughton. Current ETA for go live for all providers is end of June. They are still in the process of 'surveying' trial customers apparantly. But he said most if not all new builds in Broughton should be able to receive FTTP.

Edited by deleted (Tue 10-May-11 17:54:40)

In reply to a post by bruce007:

interesting comment from BT forum

Just spoke to a BT engineer in Broughton. Current ETA for go live for all providers is end of June. They are still in the process of 'surveying' trial customers apparantly. But he said most if not all new builds in Broughton should be able to receive FTTP.

Hmmm, that is interesting, wonder if that's new builds after a certain date...?

Looks like Openreach are putting down large black tubing into the ground along Newport Road tonight (17/5/11)....

I don't know where they are exactly but cabs 110 and 123 have been added to the trial and last I heard were due sometime this month (although that may be in delay). I believe they serve some flats as Openreach want to test installing FTTP in flats. If you live there and there are flats round you you could be in luck.

BT/OR were doing some fibre work in 'old' Broughton last month, so it could very well be the cabs serving those houses (Milton Road, Broughton Square etc).

The traffic cones are moving closer up Newport Road towards the Bridge and closer to Countess Way...

Hi
Last week i recieved a letter from BT inviting me to join the FTTP trial. Yesterday the enginner called and there is a new piece of plastic tube coming out of the ground in my utilities cabinet ( i was not in when he called) the final installation is on the 3/June/11. I am located on Shenley Lodge near Furzton Lake. So hear hoping all goes well

We are pleased for you! let us know what happens!

No further news yet...

Well wat a complete wast of time .... hear is a link to what has happenend ....

http://www.idnetters.co.uk/forums/index.php/topic,25...

That's sad news to hear, hopefully you can get this resolved.

We're still waiting, looks like not much is happening, have seen a number of Openreach and what appears to be contractors in other parts of the Bradwell Abbey area putting what appears to be large black tubing into telephone manholes and feeding them on...keeping fingers crossed we'll see some activity in Broughton Gate.

In reply to a post by Anonymous:

...number of Openreach and what appears to be contractors in other parts of the Bradwell Abbey area putting what appears to be large black tubing into telephone manholes and feeding them on...

That sounds like the pipes that the fibre gets pushed through. Where have you seen them doing this work?

sounds more like the fibre cable itself. Depends what he means by large... the cable drum might be large...

Edited by deleted (Wed 08-Jun-11 17:57:52)

Saw some activity along Chaffron way between the canal and the turning for Woolstone...

In reply to a post by FRS_Plunderer:

sounds more like the fibre cable itself. Depends what he means by large... the cable drum might be large...

It definately think black cable or tubing on a large spindle...

Have heard that some parts of MK have had their FTTC pushed back to 30 Sept, I know someone who's cabinet was originally due to go live by 31st March and this is the second time it's been put back.

At least Broughton Gate remains consistent...!

seen a van around broughton today, where do I find the release date for broughton or how will I know when I can get it?

Not heard much about FTTx in Broughton in a few weeks.

Last activity was the 'old' Broughton got its FTTP installed back in Feb/Mar, and it was rumored to be going live end June. I think the cabs are 110 and 123. Today is Thursday, and that is when BT releases new cabs.

So check out the DSL checker to see if yours has been enabled yet. If yes, then you need to get with an ISP that is participating in the FTTP trial.

For 'new' Broughton, we are sitll waiting for the BTOR flock to come and install the main fibre splitters. No news on when that will happen, but the new build postcodes (MK10 7xx) are missing from the postcode files, so there is no confirmed info, good or bad. Everything points to this happening eventually, but whether that is 3 weeks or 3 years is unknown. There was fibre work being done on Newport road, but unclear if this was for Brookland and/or Broughton.

The FTTP to flats (probably in Broughton Square) is also due to start around now, with the FTTP trial finishing around Oct this year. after that anyone served by a FTTP enabled cab should be able to order FTTP from any ISP selling that service. Basically any ISP offering FTTC products.

Edited by deleted (Thu 30-Jun-11 14:16:38)

Seems there are 11,000 FTTP capable homes connected to Bradwell Abbey, and less than 1,000 users on FTTP trial, and as BT is concerned with FTTx takeup, this is not going to help any further rollout.

So if you know anyone covered in the trial area that has not taken this up, you know what to do.

@bruce007

I live in Walnut Tree MK7.

I registered my interest for FTTP with BT over 18months ago and have repeatedly re-registered, phoned and pestered to get FTTP.

The house opposite me has been empty for 2 years and only been occupied for 3 weeks. So I see openreach van outside. Decided to talk to the engineers. They tell me they are "blowing" FTTP to the house that has only just been occupied!!

They also told me that this (my) street is fully functional for FTTP.
They gave me an 0800 number to phone. So I phoned and expressed my dismay about the situation.
Apparently I'm not on the list of registered interest people!!
After a long chat I was told that the trial has been suspended for a while and I would be placed on a priority list for when they start the trial again.
So, it's of no surprise to me that there are so few people taking up the opportunity for FTTP.
When a long-term BT customer, who has repeatedly tried to get on the list, is not even on the list for the trial offer shows how shambolic this roll-out is.
I'm really ticked-off about this.

In reply to a post by wingit:

@bruce007

I live in Walnut Tree MK7.

I registered my interest for FTTP with BT over 18months ago and have repeatedly re-registered, phoned and pestered to get FTTP.

The house opposite me has been empty for 2 years and only been occupied for 3 weeks. So I see openreach van outside. Decided to talk to the engineers. They tell me they are "blowing" FTTP to the house that has only just been occupied!!

They also told me that this (my) street is fully functional for FTTP.
They gave me an 0800 number to phone. So I phoned and expressed my dismay about the situation.
Apparently I'm not on the list of registered interest people!!
After a long chat I was told that the trial has been suspended for a while and I would be placed on a priority list for when they start the trial again.
So, it's of no surprise to me that there are so few people taking up the opportunity for FTTP.
When a long-term BT customer, who has repeatedly tried to get on the list, is not even on the list for the trial offer shows how shambolic this roll-out is.
I'm really ticked-off about this.

Any reason why you want to stock with BT? I think BT have only recently 'joined' the trial on a retail basis - there are a few other ISP's on it though.
Zen - when I last asked, they weren't taking any more on, but that was April, and they said they expected it to change by end of May
Plusnet - seems to be the most popular for the FTTP trial, though I think you pretty much have to join as a regular customer first, then apply for the trial
AAISP - who I'm with - I wasn't a previous customer of theirs, but they sorted it all out and got me on the trial.

Add Vivaciti to the list

It is not lack of interest that is the issue, but the fact it there are very few ISP's taking part in the trial and even then it's still difficult

For me the issue is I do not want to migrate away from BE to take part in a trial. Vivaciti seem the only ISP willing to provision me without me being an exisiting customer first.
I'd be interested in the 0800 number if it give me the option to trial via BT - I am a BT Retail customer for phone after all

A&A, Plusnet and Zen all require you to be an existing customer to take part

I did register interest via the Infinity website, but heard nothing

I am still making my mind up at the moment whether to go for the trial or wait until a full product launch

The FTTP trial has now been extended until December 2011, so I have a bit more time to consider it

I'd be very surprised if there is anyone on Highams Park who has gone live yet - the infrastructure has been there for months and it's different to the Bradwell Abbey trial in that the Highams Park trial is over the pole

In reply to a post by nredwood:

A&A, Plusnet and Zen all require you to be an existing customer to take part

Not quite - I wasn't a customer of A&A. I had to open a customer account before they could get installation dates, but in the process of doing so I wasn't committing to any other product - if it all fell through, I could have just walked away.

I rang the number that MKBAG are quoting to call BT to ask about the trial, I've been told that my area of Broughton Gate is not being covered at the moment.

If you're in MK and can make Tuesday evening at the Council Offices, one of the members of MKBAG who is also a councillor will be making a speech about the state of broadband in MK.

That's big corporation for you.. Make it hard to get on the trial, then complain about poor takeup.

So unless they make FTTP a live product (end the trial), or more providers joint the trial, getting onto FTTP is going to require moving ISP. not always a welcome prospect.

But with O2 (Be) and Sky starting to talk (sadly no visible action yet) about launching Fibre products, those who want Fibre, just not resold BTW because of service levels and 'managing' traffic, may soon have one less reason to hold out. (Bear in mind that BT still makes money from the non BTW products, so we are not expecting them to provide Fibre and we go elsewhere).

So if you fall in that category, still register interest with BT, as that is the best way for our demand to be seen.

I see that MK10 9LL and 9LB are showing as FTTP enabled on the DSL (address) checker today.

So if you are in 'old' Broughton, I suggest you check if you are one of the luck few new (and possible last) additions to the FTTP trial area.

I checked a few other post codes in the area, and only got FTTP text on those.

Edited by deleted (Mon 11-Jul-11 10:49:49)

Judging by googlemaps idea of the postcodes, it seems they've thrown an extension over tongwell st!

Correct. BT/OR were installing FTTP in 'old' Broughton back in Feb/Mar. They appeared to have worked on all the 'old' Broughton residential roads visible in google maps, except Milton/London road (that I saw or heard about). So I would expect all those houses to be FTTP capable.

The Broughton Gate/Chase etc (new Builds) roads have not yet been added to maps, and still shows default MK10 location for any of the MK10 7xx post codes. (Although the postcodes are now pointing to correct location in the latest TomTom update).

In reply to a post by bruce007:

Correct. BT/OR were installing FTTP in 'old' Broughton back in Feb/Mar. They appeared to have worked on all the 'old' Broughton residential roads visible in google maps, except Milton/London road (that I saw or heard about). So I would expect all those houses to be FTTP capable.

The Broughton Gate/Chase etc (new Builds) roads have not yet been added to maps, and still shows default MK10 location for any of the MK10 7xx post codes. (Although the postcodes are now pointing to correct location in the latest TomTom update).

Ah, do you mean if it's not on googlemaps, openreach will claim it doesn't really exist and that countless way is just a figment of my imagination?!

Not quite. I just meant that the roads you can see on google maps are what I call 'old' Broughton. All the new builds roads are not yet shown (as not adopted by council yet).

But for the same reason, many systems don't recognise the new poste codes - MK10 7xx. So if you use any checker, it may just returns the default centre point of MK10 (near Oak Grove School).

I'm on the FTTP trial in Monkston Park, once the BT wholesale checker states your ready then you can jump on board as long as you can get hold of the relevant trial team at your ISP.

With regard to flats, I notice some engineering work on Monkston Park to feed one of the blocks of flats here so looks like they will be live soon. The trial with BT is now until October which make sense if the flats are going to be cabled shortly.

To be honest I was told FTTP wasn't avaiable at all when I first made enquiries with BT it was only after contacting the executive office in BT did things make a move and got sorted. I did read somewhere and I've forgotten where I saw it, that MK Council had been dealing with the wrong contact within BT which meant information was not forthcoming.

Not much movement in Broughton Gate(s), but some updates:

The BT Infinity checker is now showing BT Infinity @ 100Mb as "Coming Soon" to the FTTP enabled addresses in 'old' Broughton.
So maybe the product will be live and readily availablity in the not too distant future (Oct-Dec). This will at least make the product more visible to the general public, and hopefully drive takeup and chances of more of us getting connected.

Sadly, the new build addresses are getting a slightly different message to before

Sorry, you're not currently able to get BT Infinity. This may be because your area has not been enabled yet, or your individual line does not support super-fast broadband. Register your interest and we'll let you know if this changes.

Also, Fibre trucks have been working on Newport Road again, but unclear is this is for Brookland and/or Broughton Gates. Anyone see them, pls stop and ask.

Bruce,

I am in Broughton Gate and am getting the message you posted. Do you think that this is a negative thing i.e. not ever comming, or just the next step in getting closer?

Will keep my eyes open for engineers

In reply to a post by bruce007:

Not much movement in Broughton Gate(s), but some updates:

The BT Infinity checker is now showing BT Infinity @ 100Mb as "Coming Soon" to the FTTP enabled addresses in 'old' Broughton.
So maybe the product will be live and readily availablity in the not too distant future (Oct-Dec). This will at least make the product more visible to the general public, and hopefully drive takeup and chances of more of us getting connected.

Sadly, the new build addresses are getting a slightly different message to before

Sorry, you're not currently able to get BT Infinity. This may be because your area has not been enabled yet, or your individual line does not support super-fast broadband. Register your interest and we'll let you know if this changes.

Also, Fibre trucks have been working on Newport Road again, but unclear is this is for Brookland and/or Broughton Gates. Anyone see them, pls stop and ask.

gotta love the upto 100mb for a 110mb service

Only bad because we still don't appear to have moved into the 'coming soon' status, despite some recent fibre work in the nearby grid roads.

I think there is still basically 3 options. Available, Coming Soon, Don't hold your breath. We are possibly better off than those exchanges not yet planned to be enabled, but no clue if and when BT/OR will install FTTP or FTTC.

Bruce,

I agree it is frustrating not knowing when / if we will get fibre. Even being told that it is 3 months away would be preferable.

Interestingly, I put in a couple of postcodes of where I used to live in Tattenhoe and one of the flats in Monston park and both are showing exactly the same new message.

James

Almost at the end of August, have seen the usual numbers of OpenReach vans on Broughton Gate, but no further work on Newport Road.

Be interesting to see those whose Infinity date is 30th Sept gets pushed back a third time...

I have not previously posted here.

I follow various sources of information, including the various availablity checkers and resources such as the MK BAG website.

I note with interest, that there is a very recent document (minutes of a meeting) on the MK BAG website, which states that BT are "disappointed" by takup of FTTC or takeup of the FTTP trial.

Whenever I go to the various websites to check (I gave up phoning the BT and other ISPs some time ago, for advise as to when a fibre-based product would be available) - I am advised that fibre (in any form) is unavailable, with no future date to expect.

I have signed up the 'let me know when it is' forms, and have not been contacted.

Hang on ! How can BT/the council be surpirsed at low takeup, if consumers like me are being told that it is unavailable in anyform?

I live in Campbell Park - aside from being next to CMK (with presumably it's abundance of fibre ... for business users) , pretty close to the Bradwell Abbey exchange in Fishermead.

Broadband provision here is crackers.

MK council are conducting a survey (and grumbling about lack of response) ... lets see if it can make a difference and fill it out for them.

https://public01.milton-keynes.gov.uk/SNAPSurvey/Bro...

(I can't be bothered to register, but refer to me as "campbellparkUser" if you need to)

The FTTP trial is now moving forward with Voice Access as well.

What trial?

The FTTP trial.

BT are running a small Fibre Voice Access trial with a few of those on the 100Mb service. This will be lasting until April 2012. The Broadband trial for BT is due to end this October but now firm details of what will be happening, but then I might not be in that loop anymore.

It seems a number of other CPs are almost at product launch. The FVA trial seems the most promising step, this could fully replace the copper service altogether and add a TV feed. Could this really happen?

just got invite to trial in broughton gate but then called and was told not active yet but they have taken my details

Excellent. Where in Broughton gate are you?

here

But in the flats on the corner

That area is covered by the FTTP installation they did a while ago in Broughton Square. They really are taking ages to get people live after dropping the cables back in Mar/Apr.

So sadly not good news for theose in the Broughton Gate new builds east of Milton Road and north of the stream.

As a side - bing maps is now showing many of the new Broughton Gate roads
Broughton Gate roads

Phoned again was told not a trial area

If you mean along northern end of Tanfield Road, I am not surprised. BT line checker only shows FTTP available in a few roads (Bewdley Grove, Milton Road Cicle, Swanwick lane are a few I have checked and are available).

So although BT/OR installed the fibre that should have covered most of old Boughton, it seems they have only enabled some of the addresses. Most likely the cabs on the wrong side of the stream are not enabled for old and new houses alike.

I suspect that the FTTP on the west side of the stream is fed from Monkston, and east of the stream is united in waiting for the feed from Newport road (that has been possibly ongoing for a while).

Feel proud to be "on the map"

I'm really tempted to go 3G, speeds between 0.45 and 0.8 mbps at the moment on Countdown Way...

Paul

In reply to a post by Anonymous:

Feel proud to be "on the map"

I'm really tempted to go 3G, speeds between 0.45 and 0.8 mbps* at the moment on Countdown Way...

Paul

* meaning my landline broadband speed!

Actually one evening last week I got 1.4 mbps, and since it's been around 0.7...

Oh well!

In reply to a post by Anonymous:

Actually one evening last week I got 1.4 mbps, and since it's been around 0.7...

Different networks and different price plans give different speeds on 3G.

In reply to a post by jchamier:

In reply to a post by Anonymous:

Actually one evening last week I got 1.4 mbps, and since it's been around 0.7...

Different networks and different price plans give different speeds on 3G.

Sorry, I was refering to my landline broadband

Hi
I thought i would update you all ..

After 12 weeks and 5 engineer visits the FTTP is up and working .

I was offered the trial back in June which was to finish in October but because of the issues i had and the fact i took 5 days leave i was offered an extra 3 months for free, which will take me to January 2013.

Thanks

Can I ask what speeds you're getting and how far you are from Countess Way so I can cry myself to sleep tonight?!

i am not at home but this is the last link i have -

Speed

This was taken a few weeks ago i have had the download as high as 95 and the upload 14.5

I am in Shenley Lodge -- Near Furzton Lake

Thanks

Edited by deleted (Fri 23-Sep-11 13:41:16)

b-l-imey.....!

the fastest I get on the other end of the H7 is 1mbps

seriously though, enjoy!

Paul

in case this went un-noticed, the product goes live on 31 Oct (2011)

new articlenew article

if its going live as a product, will they then fill in the gaps or just keep it to the areas on the trial?

Going live only means you will be able to buy the service through retail channels.
Pricing still unknown, but I think you may be able to choose a FTTP speed and pay accordingly.

If there is enough demand, they may look to fill the gaps more quickly.

Also, FTTP is up to 300 from spring 2012.

So if there isn't enough demand in the areas they chose for the trial, the unfortunate ones like us who wern't included (for whatever reason) might not get connected....

Yup. If you are not in one of the areas already served in the trial, not much home they will expand coverage after go-live.

I am sure there is a plan to eventually provision FTTx for the rest, but that is quoted as 2017. Only demand or funding can bring that forward.

2017 - !

I keep asking BT, all they say is "keep checking"...

NEWS FROM BT:

BT announced on 19-Dec-11 that it is to extend the reach of its super-fast broadband network in Milton Keynes.

They revealed that 20,000 more homes and businesses in Bradwell Abbey will be able to receive super-fast broadband by the end of 2012. Around 9,600 homes and businesses will be able to receive service over FTTP and 10,700 will be served by BT�s fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) super-fast fibre-based broadband.

Around 11,000 homes and businesses are already within reach of the FTTP technology and today�s announcement means that about 95 per cent of premises served by the Bradwell Abbey exchange will have access to faster broadband through a mix of FTTP and FTTC technologies.

In reply to a post by bruce007:

NEWS FROM BT:

BT announced on 19-Dec-11 that it is to extend the reach of its super-fast broadband network in Milton Keynes.

They revealed that 20,000 more homes and businesses in Bradwell Abbey will be able to receive super-fast broadband by the end of 2012. Around 9,600 homes and businesses will be able to receive service over FTTP and 10,700 will be served by BT�s fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) super-fast fibre-based broadband.

Around 11,000 homes and businesses are already within reach of the FTTP technology and today�s announcement means that about 95 per cent of premises served by the Bradwell Abbey exchange will have access to faster broadband through a mix of FTTP and FTTC technologies.

In reply to a post by Anonymous:

In reply to a post by bruce007:

NEWS FROM BT:

BT announced on 19-Dec-11 that it is to extend the reach of its super-fast broadband network in Milton Keynes.

They revealed that 20,000 more homes and businesses in Bradwell Abbey will be able to receive super-fast broadband by the end of 2012. Around 9,600 homes and businesses will be able to receive service over FTTP and 10,700 will be served by BT�s fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) super-fast fibre-based broadband.

Around 11,000 homes and businesses are already within reach of the FTTP technology and today�s announcement means that about 95 per cent of premises served by the Bradwell Abbey exchange will have access to faster broadband through a mix of FTTP and FTTC technologies.

My trial has just finished in Broughton, however now BT want £50 p.m inc line rental for the product over 18 months...steep imo..

£50 for what speed service

http://www.productsandservices.bt.com/consumerProduc...
Shows 100 Mbps as £35 plus voice line renta at £10.85 to £14 a month.

In reply to a post by MrSaffron:

£50 for what speed service

http://www.productsandservices.bt.com/consumerProduc...
Shows 100 Mbps as £35 plus voice line renta at £10.85 to £14 a month.

Yep £49.60 all in, or get £4.35 off the line rental by paying 12 months up front..

sounds like good value to me !

We definitely have FTTP - watched the bloke dig up the front garden to install it before the trial started - but we didn't go on the trial as we didn't want to be tied to BT and our speed with O2 is ok (about 3mb.. but honestly its fine)

The only site that says we have FTT anything is BT - they say we can have up to 100mb but if I choose the up to 38mb infinity I get told we can only get 2.5mbps

We are currently with 02 so don't have a BT line is that why other providers who supposedly do Fibre say we can't have it ? or is it that we can either have FTTP (and only from BT) or we have to stick with landline broadband?

Confused of Shenley Lodge...

It would be nice to have a faster service, but not prepared to pay an extra £20 a month for it - just want to know what the options are... will we be able to get fibre based broadband from anyone other than BT and on anything other than the £46/month package?

The only site that says we have FTT anything is BT - they say we can have up to 100mb but if I choose the up to 38mb infinity I get told we can only get 2.5mbps

That will be because your area is FTTP so when you try for the 38Mbps, which is FTTC, it's getting in a mess and just giving you ADSL2+ estimates, instead of telling you it isn't available.

You can't choose between FTTC and FTTP. It's a different technology. Though some time next year it will become possible for people who can only have FTTC until then to get FTTP instead, expected to be several hundred £ to connect, but standard FTTP ongoing prices.

There are others currently supplying FTTP. I think ADSL24 for example. BT Infinity prices are massively undercutting everyone else though. Buying the user base.

Thanks for your response, that is really bad news.

I'm probably the only person on the planet who isn't happy to have FTTP - I want FTTC, its plenty good enough for us and there at least seems to be some competition between suppliers keeping prices keen and it would appear is going to be the main 'technology' for the majority of the UK and therefore the majority of the ISPs for many years to come. Whilst I am certain that the FTTP service is a ferrari compared to the copper pushbike I only want a family car.

Bl&*dy typical, this early adoption isn't all its cracked up to be imo - just like hen MK got analogue cable, so now we can't get digital cable.