RESIDENTS still have serious concerns about telegraph poles being installed in Stourbridge for broadband infrastructure.
Wollaston and Stourbridge town councillor Andrew Tromans has called for urgent improvements in how BT Openreach approaches its rollout, warning that trust with residents is at risk of being undermined.
He warned that lessons from previous disputes have only been partially learned.
The current programme follows the widely publicised backlash during the 2023 BRSK rollout, where residents in Wollaston successfully challenged the installation of telegraph poles after strong objections over poor consultation, unnecessary street clutter, and damage to the character of the area.
That episode set a clear expectation that broadband providers must work more closely with communities before carrying out intrusive works.
While there have been isolated examples of improved practice—such as installations on Falcon Rise, The Greenwoods, and near the Love Lane entrance to Mary Stevens Park—these are being viewed by many as exceptions rather than the rule.
Residents report that, in too many cases, Openreach has continued to press ahead with installations without adequate engagement, transparency, or sensitivity to local surroundings. Concerns remain about the visual impact of new infrastructure and the inconsistency in how works are planned and delivered across different streets.
Cllr Tromans said: “While it’s clear that some improvements have been made in a handful of locations, far too many residents still feel ignored.
"The situation should not depend on where you live. Openreach must take a consistent approach, properly consult with communities, and ensure installations are carried out in a way that respects the character of our area. Anything less is simply not good enough.”
Councillor Tromans said that the demand for better digital infrastructure must not come at the expense of local voices, and that there should be meaningful engagement—not retrospective justification.
Residents are continuing to call for clearer communication, greater accountability, and a more community-focused approach as the rollout progresses.
An Openreach spokesperson said: "We’re building a new Full Fibre broadband network in Wollaston and Stourbridge, and almost 4,000 local homes and businesses can now upgrade.
"Wherever possible, we use existing poles and underground ducts in our upgrades. We try to keep new poles to a minimum, but sometimes we need them to make sure people aren't left out.
"We always follow local planning rules whilst balancing engineering, cost and safety needs. Research shows most people would accept a new pole to deliver better broadband in their neighbourhood."
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