BT still on track for fibre roll-out

BT has said it is still on track with its plans to roll out next-generation super-fast broadband across the UK, despite concern from some shareholders regarding the economic situation.

It was reported last week that some shareholders had expressed concern about BT’s £1.5bn fibre broadband plan, suggesting the organisation would be better off keeping hold of the cash instead.

But a BT spokesman told silicon.com: “The project isn’t at risk because of the recession. There’s nothing that is affecting that investment decision at this moment.”

He added, however, that it would be wrong to say for sure that the project would be “completely unaffected by the recession”.

For example. if plans to build new homes and offices around the UK are delayed or cancelled, the amount of residences that would be included in the rollout by 2012 could be affected.

The spokesman also confirmed that there were ongoing talks between BT and Ofcom, regarding changes to regulation to ensure the organization made a return on the investment.

Forrester Research analyst, Ian Fogg, said BT would be better off sticking with its plans, as it will put them ahead of competitors.

“If they invest now they will be in a much better position in the long run,” he told silicon.com.

He added that all the reasons the rollout of next-generation broadband are important to BT and the UK still apply, despite the economic downturn.

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