Openreach plans for 'ugly' pole in Marlborough abandoned

Broadband supplier and network builder Openreach had been due to erect a telegraph pole in Rogers Meadow, just off the A346 in Marlborough, to allow locals to upgrade to ultrafast full-fibre broadband.

But the plans were met with fierce opposition from a number of residents who believed the project would “spoil the skyline” in the area.

One objector, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “It’s nonsense because most people don’t want the pole and it’s only a small street so it would spoil the skyline.

“It was a very big pole, it would be like going back in time and wires would be everywhere, it would look like a chicken run.

“How would you like it? In this day and age, those things should go under the ground, it’s an ugly thing to put up.”

Workmen arrived in Rogers Meadow on Thursday, September 7 (Image: Public contribution)After several complaints, those protesting the plans were informed no pole would be erected.

But they rushed to panic stations when workmen arrived on the scene with a pole on Thursday, September 7.

After discussions with residents the installation team reportedly left without carrying out any work and, according to Openreach, will not be returning.

The firm confirmed that, following consultation with locals in Rogers Meadow, they would not be installing any poles in the street.

As a result, inhabitants of Rogers Meadow will not be able to upgrade to ultrafast full fibre on the Openreach network, although the firm’s build will go ahead as planned for the rest of the town.

A spokesperson for Openreach said: “Our engineers and build partners are working hard to bring ultrafast, ultra-reliable Full Fibre broadband to Marlborough. This will not only create huge benefits to families and businesses in the area but also a welcome boost to the local economy.

Workmen in Rogers Meadow (Image: Public Contribution)“Wherever possible, we use existing infrastructure such as poles and ducts while building Full Fibre. We’re aware of the visual impact our equipment can have and the balance between cost effectiveness, aesthetics and safety can be difficult to achieve.

“As a result, there are times when we simply cannot avoid erecting poles to provide services efficiently, safely and in a sound engineering manner.

“In this case, a new pole was the only feasible way of delivering ultrafast Full Fibre but following objections from residents we have removed this street from our build plan.”