Openreach updates WLR contract terms

The traditional analogue UK PSTN network is due to be shut down with a move to an ‘all IP’ environment. This will affect users who haven’t yet migrated to a ‘digital voice’ service as well as those on older FTTC (fibre to the cabinet) or ADSL services. Fortunately this is an ever smaller number.

Openreach has today notified service providers that as of the end of 2025, it may serve 90 days’ notice to cease providing Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) services. It is expected the full copper switch off won’t happen until 2027 as previously indicated, however Openreach appears to be pushing providers to keep the momentum going to avoid problems nearing the final deadline.

“This briefing is to inform CPs about the notification of the WLR contract termination.

As part of our ongoing All IP programme, Openreach has issued contract termination notifications to all WLR CPs with an effective date of 31 December 2025. Where assets have not been migrated and/or cancelled by 31 December 2025, BT may, at our absolute and sole discretion, allow the services and assets to remain post 31 December 2025. Any continuation of services shall be on new terms and conditions which shall comprise the terms, conditions and charges of the current WLR contract save for the following revision:

• Clause 2.3(d) shall read as not less than 90 days’ notice.

The new WLR terms will be notified and published on the website. [..]

Openreach expects CPs to continue migrating their customers at pace, and we are terminating the contract to provide flexibility to develop future processes with CPs to address the remaining asset base.

CPs are reminded that any associated broadband service (FTTC / SMPF / sub loop SMPF) will be terminated when the underlying WLR service is ceased, as per business-as-usual processes.

Openreach

There is nothing for users to do at this time as nothing has as such changed. There continue to be issues with some telecare systems, and many Alarm Receiving Centres for intruder alarms have yet to migrate off BT Redcare despite the service being due to end in August 2025.