The government's plan to remove some of the red tape surrounding broadband rollouts has come in for criticism from Westminster City Council (WCC).

Under the proposals, unveiled last week by new Culture Secretary Maria Miller, internet service providers will not be required to gain planning approval from councils before installing broadband street cabinets and other infrastructure.

Philippa Roe, the Conservative leader of WCC, expressed concern that the measures will dilute the ability of residents to oppose the installation of broadband boxes, which she noted can be "large eyesores".

"It is more important that councils work in partnership with broadband companies to locate infrastructure sensibly," she argued.

Ms Miller's proposals also angered the Local Government Association (LGA), which said it is unacceptable to remove citizens' rights to complain about "humming junction boxes outside their windows and gardens or poles and wires festooning their streets".

When considering the location of broadband infrastructure, it is important to consider the impact on the environment rather than just suiting the convenience of providers, the LGA insisted.

Add a comment

Comment

Your name

Your e-mail address

Comments (0)