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Posted on: November 7, 2022
When it comes to your full fibre connection, there are two ways to do this – either digging underground or via telephone poles.
The advantage to digging is that the cables remain invisible, but this process may not be available due to the method in some properties were designed prior. In comparison, when it comes to setting up full fibre for a given area, telegraph poles have many advantages:
The process of setting a pole is much quicker and more efficient than digging. It usually only takes a few hours to complete. Although a contentious subject, poles have Permitted Development (PD) rights, which means a planning process isn’t required.
This can bypass any potential delays and provide full fibre broadband to local residents very quickly. Poles are a common sight across the UK and so the benefit of full fibre network outweighs the aesthetic.
A dig build, however, is often a much slower process due to the technical work involved. It usually requires roadwork layout and diversion signs, and tidying and refilling road ditches. Tenants will also need to wait for landlord permission which could delay the process further.
Ducting is mostly available to newer properties when built which allow for underground methods to bring fibre to the property, and can differ from methods in comparison to older properties that do not have this option and require telegraph poles in order to bring fibre services to the area.[
Telegraph pole installation is usually much more straightforward and creates very little disruption to residents compared with the digging process, which creates noise pollution as well as congestion and restricted road access.
Digging up roads can also result in accidental cable cuts leaving premises without a phoneline, internet or power. There’s also the risk of cables that are not dug deep enough due to the materials in the ground or inaccurate network documentation, all leading to possible cuts in the future.
Finally, the heavy machinery used during digging can cause damage to older houses, create residual dust, and cause cracks. Cracks attract water and freeze in colder weather causing them to spread and potential create trip hazards.
We all know how well local councils are able to fix potholes. For what appears to be a relatively easy process, it can turn into long term damage to not only your roads, but could incur future costs for repairs on vehicles as well.
Poles are a more cost-effective solution to upgrading networks, especially in the areas where digging underground isn’t a viable option. Where digging is an available route, it also requires more resources and labour increasing the cost and time it takes to receive fibre exponentially.
Studies show that ultrafast full fibre connection, whether via a pole or underground increases the value of your home. So, although a new pole may look like a disadvantage to some, it won’t impact the market or the value of the property negatively.
Installing a telegraph pole is a much more conscious approach compared to digging. A pole, usually made out a renewable material, can bridge a gap of about 85 metres. Digging to the same distance requires a lot more resources, producing about 250 kg worth of carbon emissions.
Despite the negative reputation that can be attached with telegraph poles, they can often be the best way to bring a full fibre network to residents and businesses. With every build, we fully assess what is required and opt for the process that brings the biggest benefit to the town.
To find out if your town is eligible for ultrafast broadband click here.
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