CURA's 'primary concern' is making sure customers well-informed about switch-off of copper network

Manx Telecom plans to end the service by 2029

The Island's telecoms regulator says its 'primary concern' is making sure consumers have enough information about the the switch-off of the Island's copper network.

Manx Telecom has invested nearly £50 million into its fibre network since it was first announced in 2017.

It's said to provide internet that's up to 10 times quicker than was previously available.

The vast majority of the work is now said to have been completed, with over 90 percent of homes and businesses now able to access it.

Manx Telecom says making the switch is 'really important' because copper can no longer keep up with the speed and reliability needed in today's world.

The switch-off is expected to be complete by 2029, although Manx Telecom has already faced challenges securing planning approval for some of the necessary telegraph poles.

It will happen in 'zones' - the first being zones 1 and 2 which cover Foxdale, St John's and Kirk Michael.

People living in each zone will be given 12 months' notice and leaflets have already been distributed to households outlining why the move is being made. 

But the Communications and Utilities Regulatory Authority (CURA) says its primary concern is the consumers who, for varying reasons, may not have enough information and support to be aware of their future loss of telecoms services.

It says it's working with community and third sector organisations to try and reach as many people as possible, and will also be writing to households in the near future to provide independent information, support and advice.

CURA says it's been working with government, the Office of Fair Trading and other service providers to make sure people's 'needs and protection are kept at the heart of the process'.

Those relying on copper-dependent technology such as care devices, lift lines, alarm lines or similar systems, are being asked to contact their service provider to discuss a tailored transition plan.

If you need help to do that, you can contact CURA on 677022 or by emailing enquiries@cura.im.