Virgin media and BT duct access

Ok having a wee bit of a discussion elsewhere on this but what is the rules regarding Virgin using existing BT ducts rather than digging their own trenches ? Is it a case of they must try and use them or is it optional only ? As you can guess some locals are bit up in arms with the state of pathways etc with the micro trenches being cut

There are no rules requiring them to use them. They have the right to dig public carriageways and pavements provided by their Telecommunications Code powers.

Virgin don't use BT ducts to deliver broadband to homes. Their current expansion is all their own digging.

As Ignitionnet has mentioned.

Link to Openreach's page for sharing infrastructure:
https://www.openreach.co.uk/orpg/home/products/ducta...

Link to the Electronic Communications Code:
https://www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-telecoms-and-interne...

As I mentioned in the other thread, Virgin are currently employing 100mm micro trenching and ducting for their Project Lightning works in parts of Kent.

Your local highway authority will carry out inspections of Virgin Media's work and, where needed, raise any defects. Note that the utilities are only responsible for their reinstatement and you shouldn't expect any full width reinstatement of the pavement just because a small trench has gone through it.

Edited by deleted (Sat 11-Feb-17 01:04:54)