THE INSTALLATION of telegraph poles might not grab the national headlines, but it is a serious issue in south Birmingham.
Most people would agree with the principle that households should have access to fast broadband and a choice of providers.
But under changes to the law in 2013 and 2015, companies do not have to seek planning permission before they put up a pole.
As a result, there has been a ‘race to the bottom’ and many of my constituents have suddenly been confronted with unwanted and unneeded poles, often on their doorstep, and with little or no warning.
One of the companies – BRSK – is under investigation by the regulator over an alleged failure to give sufficient notice of new installations in Birmingham. I have seen too many cases of poles that are an obstruction amid scarce pavement space.
I was glad to secure a debate in Parliament on the problem. A number of MPs spoke, including from the wider West Midlands – this problem is not limited to our patch.
The Minister, Chris Bryant, said a strong Code of Practice was being introduced, and he threatened ‘cowboys’ with new legislation if the situation did not improve. Credit is due to Ministers for recognising the problem and taking action, although personally I would like to see the law changed sooner.
Poles will be the right option in areas where it is not possible to place new cables underground, but more existing infrastructure could be shared. The basic point is that residents should have a clear right to be notified and consulted.
Separately, the new funding in the Budget for the NHS must be welcomed – it is the biggest real increase in 20 years. One in ten people in Birmingham are on an NHS waiting list and some of my constituents have waited years for life-saving assessments and care.
And the investment in education buildings and equipment is good news for local schools like King Edward VI Balaam Wood Academy, which is waiting for a construction date for a much-needed rebuild.
Tough decisions were needed but serious progress is now being made, and as a local MP I will always fight to secure the investment, jobs and public services that we deserve.
Laurence Turner
Northfield MP
