Government announces measures to boost digital access

Government announces measures to boost digital access

	Published : Sat, 29 Oct 2005 13:05 By : Paula Demarzio Print this Story

The government has laid out new planning rules, which will allow households across the UK to access digital and satellite television plus broadband internet services effortlessly.

The revised regulations put down by the government are aimed at protecting environment which is being affected by lopsided development. Sensitive areas have been earmarked where the position of antennas are restricted, including National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Conservation Areas.

Housing Minister Yvette Cooper told parliament that the government was intending to modify current planning regulations which would take into account the proliferation of various antennas, such as MESH and wireless antennas.

As per the rules to be set out by the government, householders need not apply for special planning permission to place antennas. According to Cooper, changes will make it "easier for householders and businesses to access both digital or satellite television and wireless broadband services." She added: "However, these changes to the planning regulations are balanced to ensure that any adverse environmental impact is kept to a minimum."

Restrictions will regulate the number, size and location of antennas. Antennas henceforth will have to be installed in such a way that they do not affect the appearance of the buildings from outside. Redundant antennas also should be disposed off.

This move, it is expected, will benefit people living in far-flung areas, who until now had to rely on telephone cables for internet connections. They can now get access to broadband connections.

Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (OPDM) is about to issue a revised Householders Guide which will explain the new regulations on the placement of antennas.

Cooper, highlighting the advantages of the new changes, added: These changes remove some of the red tape around new technology by updating the planning rules, whilst keeping protections for the local environment."