Openreach to stop accepting old copper line orders in eight areas

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 06:08 · Archive

Openreach will stop accepting new orders for older copper-based phone and broadband services from November 2027 in eight Worcestershire areas where full fibre is available.

Eight areas in Worcestershire will be affected by Openreach's changes to the UK's phone and broadband network as part of a nationwide shift from old copper lines to full fibre broadband. Openreach plans to stop accepting new orders for certain older copper-based phone and broadband services from November 4, 2027, at properties in these areas where full fibre broadband is available.

The change means that if someone moves home, changes provider or orders a new service, they may be offered a newer connection rather than a traditional copper-based one. However, existing services will not be immediately cut off. Bryn Thompson, director at Phonely, said: 'The November 2027 changes are about restricting new orders for older services where full fibre is available, not suddenly disconnecting everyone's existing phone line.'

This move is separate from the national analogue landline switch-off, scheduled for January 31, 2027. After that date, all phone calls will be carried over digital networks rather than the old analogue system. For most users, this means plugging their phone into their broadband router, often using a small adapter. Mr Thompson said most households will be able to keep their existing phone number and continue using the same telephone.

How it is being reported

• Could your landline be affected? 8 Worcestershire areas named in major shake upOpenreach announced the updates as part of a nationwide shift from old copper lines to full fibre broadband, as the UK moves toward digital phone services.Worcester News · 18 Oct, 05:00
• Could your landline be affected? 8 Worcestershire areas named in major shake upOpenreach announced the updates as part of a nationwide shift from old copper lines to full fibre broadband, as the UK moves toward digital phone services.Malvern Gazette · 18 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Openreach · Worcestershire · Bryn Thompson · Phonely

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