Ofcom has published what it has described as a "clear regulatory framework" to encourage investment in fibre optic broadband.

The telecoms industry regulator revealed that rival internet service providers such as TalkTalk and Sky Broadband will be allowed to access a dedicated virtual link over BT's newly-laid fibre optic infrastructure.

It claimed BT will be able to set wholesale prices for the use of its network that promote investment by guaranteeing the company a fair return, but that these rates will not be anti-competitive.

Under the plans, Ofcom said BT should also offer access to its telegraph poles and underground ducts to allow its rivals to roll out fibre optic broadband in areas that the company does not intend to cover.

"Ofcom has finalised a clear regulatory framework to promote investment, competition and innovation," remarked the body's chief executive Ed Richards.

In summer 2010, the regulator revealed that the UK's average broadband speed was 5.2Mb/s, up from 4.1Mb/s in April 2009.

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