Altering our network

If you are planning to carry out road works or site works that may affect our network then you must contact Openreach at the earliest opportunity. Leaving this until your work has started may result in a serious delay to your programme. Please read on...

Only Openreach may alter their network unless an alternative written agreement is made

LEGAL INFORMATION:

What if my work affects the Public Highway?
We will need confirmation that you have the agreement of the Highways Authority to do the work and we may need to reach agreements with them to carry out alterations ourselves. Remember to include details about access to your site during construction. This may affect our network well before you start building your new roads.

What if my work affects Openreach network on private land?
We will need to establish the conditions of any prior wayleave agreements or other legal issues, such as the stopping up of old highways. Please contact our Network Alterations team in your local area to discuss these cases.

Where can I get more information?
The New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 Code of Practice from the HMSO: Measures necessary when apparatus is affected by major works (diversionary works). We use this booklet as a guide for all diversions, whether or not they are subject to the New Roads & Street Works Act.

For maps giving details of the location of Openreach plant please use our Maps by email service. This site is password protected. If you do not have access and would like to find out more, please see Maps by e-mail Q&A.

For a Free onsite mark up, contact our Network Protection service.

COST & TIMESCALES:

Budget estimates
A budget estimate will enable you to determine whether you need to alter your plans to save money on the cost of alterations. We can usually provide estimates within 20 working days. A budget estimate is compiled from office records and is free of charge.

Detailed estimates & specifications
The budget estimate must be followed up with a detailed estimate and specification, for which there will normally be a charge. An estimate of this cost will be included in the budget estimate. Detailed estimates and specifications are normally supplied within 25 working days of the date we receive your order and payment. The service will include a site survey to confirm what is required and design the alteration works.

PROGRAMMES:

Network programme implications
The complex nature of the Openreach network means that there are many factors involved in programming physical diversion work on site. These include scale, the nature of the circuits affected and the availability of resources and materials. Information on programme implications will be included in the detailed specification and estimate.

Please contact our Network Alterations team in your local area for more information.