Broadband installation in Lincolnshire
Telecom companies are installing broadband in areas of Lincolnshire. These companies are responsible for the management and communication of works, including areas that impact our roads. You can find out about roadworks taking place in your area by our roadworks map.
Installation of cabinets and telegraph poles
In some areas, there is a requirement to install cabinets or telegraph poles on the roads. We are not responsible for this installation. Prior to their installation, we contact the company to comment on the appropriateness of location in consideration of highway safety. If the poles are blocking the highway or vehicle access, then the council can take enforcement action.
Cabinets are typically green or grey and placed in the footway or verge. These do not require planning permission. This legislation is set by the national government, not us.
Under permitted development planning laws, companies do not need planning permission to install poles up to 15 metres tall. Because of this, there is no legal requirement for a consultation period with residents or businesses.
Our duty of care
We have requested that all companies working in Lincolnshire, to sign up for the voluntary code of practice for placing new poles and cabinets. This advises that notices are posted on site 28 days before in the locations of the proposed installation, as well as letter drop to those residents close to the location. Whilst we have requested this, it is not a legal requirement for companies to fulfil.
Raising a concern
We work with telecom companies to ensure minimal disruption in our highways. Any concerns about safety or performance, contact the company who have installed this. If you have not received a fair response from the company, please contact us. You can do this by FixMyStreet, selecting ‘Report problem at other roadworks’. We will investigate the issue with the company involved.
Further information
Find out about the rules broadband companies need to follow when they install telegraph poles via the government website Broadband companies and telegraph poles