Letter: Progress in the wrong direction

In this modern age of technological advancement we, as a society, are led to believe that this is progress. Progress maybe, but are we progressing forward or regressing in the opposite direction.

The Government believes we should all be entitled to a reliable and rapid broadband service, which I am sure will be welcomed by many.

Arrangements have been put in hand for companies to provide direct fibre broadband to the property thus bypassing the Open Reach network of part fibre and part wire. In the Meadows, Lyndhurst, Trooli is planning to install direct-to-property fibre broadband for those that wish to take up the offer. This will entail erecting poles and overhead wires throughout the development. This is progress.

However, when the development was planned it took several attempts to please the planners with what was intended to be an aesthetic, pleasing development with an open character. It was for that reason that all services were placed underground.

I am fully aware of the disruption and difficulty in placing this fibre to property underground, not to mention the cost. I also understand the wish, or in some cases need, for a fast, reliable broadband, myself included. But it does seem strange that some 40 years ago, openness of vista was important enough to have the services placed underground, whereas in this modern age with modern technology and thinking we have to resort to a system that at that time was considered outdated and spoiling the street scene.

Planning permission is not necessary as the scheme falls under the heading of ‘permitted development’. It is also the lesser expensive option, so the scheme will arrive, whether we like it or not.

It may be a welcome benefit for those who wish to purchase it, but is this truly progress?

George Bisson

Lyndhurst