Solas Fibre applies for code powers from Ofcom

Another new name is entering the consumer and business full fibre scene Solas Fibre who while seeking to use Openreach PIA duct and pole access where possible is applying for Code Powers to make its roll-out easier.

Ofcom Code Powers reduce the amount of planning applications needed in any full fibre roll-out, as while renting space in Openreach ducts and poles can significantly reduce the amount of digging and poles needed there are still times when street works are needed. Code Powers are not to be taken lightly and with the worries some have around unnecessary duplicate of poles in some areas any firm entering this arena needs to follow all the rules and be pro-active with its community engagement.

Solar Fibre in its application indicates a desire to roll-out a full fibre network in Wales and Scotland plus North West and North East England. It also looks interesting as they describe the locations as rural or semi-rural rather than the urban areas where all the competition is. Service speeds of 100 Mbps through to Gigabit are mentioned.

Beyond the application with Ofcom little more is known, as the likely website suggests launching soon, so we don’t know if this is going to be a small 2,000 premises roll-out in a limited number of villages or the start of another alt-net aiming for a footprint of a few hundred thousand premises.

Another firm is applying for Code Powers today, but Theia Infrastructure Ltd are a roof top mobile mast firm, operating in London and are looking to expand further afield.