Ofcom investigates IX Wireless over controversial broadband mast in Rochdale

Tuesday, 13 May 2025 15:12

By David Murphy

The regulator, Ofcom has launched a probe into whether IX Wireless failed to consider visual impact when erecting a 15 metre mast in a residential area.

Ofcom has opened an investigation into broadband operator IX Wireless over claims it failed to consider the visual impact of a large metal pole installed in Rochdale last year.

The telecoms regulator is examining whether the 15 metre mast, put up in 2023, breached the Electronic Communications Code (ECC) by not minimising its effect on local visual amenity. IX Wireless, a hybrid fibre and wireless network builder aiming to connect 250,000 UK homes, operates under Permitted Development rights, meaning such infrastructure does not require full planning approval.

The mast in question is believed to have been erected without widespread community consultation, sparking complaints from residents about its appearance.

In a statement, Ofcom confirmed: “We are investigating whether there are reasonable grounds to believe IX Wireless failed to comply with the Regulations when installing a 15 metre metal infrastructure on a residential street in Rochdale.”

Under the ECC, network operators are required, “so far as reasonably practicable”, to minimise the visual impact of telecommunications apparatus. The case will explore if the company neglected this duty.

Ofcom’s regulatory powers in this area are limited, and outcomes can take considerable time, similar to a previous case opened in 2024 into competitor Brsk. A resolution to the IX Wireless probe may not arrive until late 2025 or 2026.

IX Wireless is expanding across the North West, with active installations in towns including Blackburn, Burnley, Oldham and Blackpool. Its masts, significantly taller than traditional wooden telegraph poles, have stirred visual concerns in several communities.

The result of Ofcom’s inquiry could set an important precedent for how telecoms providers must engage with local areas when deploying large-scale infrastructure.

The issue has also drawn wider scrutiny, with new ‘Best Practice Guidance’ from the Independent Networks Co-operative Association (INCA) and the Internet Services Providers’ Association (ISPA), urging closer community engagement before new poles are installed.

IX Wireless has yet to publicly comment on the Rochdale investigation. Ofcom said further updates will be shared as the investigation progresses.

Heywood and Middleton MP, Elsie Blundell, confirmed she recently met with the Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms to raise concerns about what she described as a “cavalier disregard of planning rules” by certain telecoms operators.

“We must do more to enable councils to stand up to these companies and call out those acting in bad faith and with such little respect for local residents,” she said.