A telecommunications company that installed a “completely unnecessary” fibre optic pole outside a man’s home in a Norfolk village has defended its move.
The fibre optic pole erected by CityFibre outside the Church Lane home of Chris Wright has caused controversy among locals in Felthorpe.
Mr Wright, an ex-IT specialist and county councillor with 57 years of experience, says the pole is “completely unnecessary” as there is already underground ducting along the street through which houses can be connected.
CityFibre maintains that the pole is necessary to connect other properties in the lane and is in discussions with Mr Wright about its installation.
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Neil Madle, Partnership Manager at CityFibre, said: "We are continuing to liaise with a resident living at Church Lane in Felthorpe, who has enquired about a pole that was erected near their home.
“This infrastructure is essential to ensure all Church Lane residents can benefit from lightning-fast full fibre broadband.
“Its location was determined in conjunction with the Cabinet and Pole Siting code of practice, as well as the local authority, to ensure it does not impede vehicular sight lines or access.
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"As the world moves increasingly online, it’s important that hard-to-reach communities are equipped with the same digital capabilities as other towns and cities.
“CityFibre would like to thank the residents of Felthorpe for their patience and understanding while we deliver this critical infrastructure.”
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Mr Wright also believes that the pole was likely a mistake, due to an oversight by CityFibre, as BT/Openreach records show underground provision for fibre optic connection were not up to date.
He said an engineer from the company backed Mr Wright’s theory, saying that the area had not been surveyed properly.
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