Consultation: Electronic Communications Code of practice

The Electronic Communications Code (‘the Code’) confers certain rights on providers of electronic communications networks and on providers of systems of infrastructure (designated by Ofcom as ‘Code Operators’) to install and maintain electronic communications apparatus on, under and over land, including on public highways, and results in considerably simplified planning procedures. In the event that agreement cannot be reached with the owner or occupier of private land, the Code allows an operator to apply to the court to impose an agreement conferring the Code right being sought or for the Code to bind the landowner or occupier.

The Code also requires Ofcom to publish, amongst other things, a Code of Practice concerning agreements for access to private land under the Code. In December 2017 Ofcom published a Code of Practice after consultation with industry.

Ofcom are now reviewing the Code of Practice and invited the NCA to contribute to its review by proposing a set of draft revisions. Having carefully considered the NCA’s recommendations, this Consultation sets out Ofcom’s proposals for amending the Code of Practice.

Responding to this Consultation

Please submit responses using the consultation response form (ODT, 49.4 KB).