Ofcom encourages expansion of ultra high-speed broadband

Ofcom today announced plans to back the development of ultra high-speed internet access across Britain in a bid to open up competition and clear the way for future investment.

The media regulator has unveiled a series of new measures to develop broadband that runs at speeds in excess of 40 megabits per second, which is more than 10 times faster than the current average speed, according to reports.

Ofcom also said it would consider extending BT’s remit, so that the telecoms company would have to share fibre-optic lines with other providers in the future, as well as continue to act as a wholesaler of the traditional copper-line broadband connections.

In a statement, Ofcom said: “We want to support rapid and widespread investment in super-fast broadband and the continued, critical role of competition in meeting consumers’ needs.

“This is important because competition in super-fast broadband services and infrastructure will mean more investment, innovation, differentiation and choice, as well as competitive prices for consumers.”

The regulator’s report also puts forward a number of additional proposals, such as supporting industry developments, conducting reviews of the overall market and working to support private investment where possible.

Companies such as cable provider Virgin Media have already unveiled plans to introduce faster broadband services of 50Mbps running over fibre optics.

If the plans go ahead, consumers will be able to download films online in a matter of minutes and companies will be able to significantly expand their online services.