Five of the UK’s largest alternative fibre network operators—nexfibre, AllPoints Fibre, Community Fibre, Gigaclear, and the newly-merged Netomnia and Brsk—have formed the PIA Coalition to push for fairer access to Openreach’s physical infrastructure. This move is aimed at addressing significant pricing disparities that place alternative network operators at a disadvantage.
According to the coalition, these pricing imbalances mean alternative operators pay more to access ducts and poles than Openreach does itself. The group has presented a detailed economic analysis to Ofcom, urging the regulator to ensure a level playing field in the upcoming Telecoms Access Review (TAR).
Giles Rowbotham, spokesperson for the PIA Coalition, and General Counsel and Chief Development Officer at nexfibre, said:
“At the moment there is not a level playing field between Openreach and alternative network operators on PIA. Alternative network operators pay significantly more to access infrastructure compared to Openreach. If left unremedied, this disparity risks choking investment, slowing down the rollout of high-speed broadband across the UK, and therefore limiting consumer choice. We’re calling on Ofcom to act in its upcoming market review to ensure a level playing field for all providers and fair and equal access to critical infrastructure. The Coalition has presented a detailed analysis to the regulator and to Openreach and we look forward to engaging collaboratively and constructively on this issue.”
The PIA Coalition represents over 5 million premises ready for service, making it one of the largest users of the PIA network. The group argues that fair access to Openreach’s infrastructure is crucial for maintaining competition and accelerating the deployment of high-speed broadband.
Ofcom’s Telecoms Access Review will assess the fixed telecoms market and set regulatory frameworks for 2026-31. The coalition hopes that decisive action will be taken to support continued investment and consumer choice in the UK’s digital landscape.
We look forward to bringing you more updates on this new outfit!
