Ofcom orders Openreach to scrap 'unfair' fibre discount that could have crushed smaller rivals

From the Newshound archive · first published 28 September 2026 · last updated 29 September 2026.

Ofcom has blocked Openreach's 'Incremental New to Openreach' offer, ruling the proposed discount was unfair and could damage competition in the UK broadband market. The scheme would have given internet service providers up to £9.50 per customer each month for up to 30 months when signing up new full-fibre customers to BT's wholesale network.

Ofcom found smaller rival networks — already struggling with thin margins — would be unable to match the terms while covering their own costs.

The blocked deal was due to launch in October and also included a £35 rebate on connection fees, targeted exclusively at customers new to the Openreach network.

Openreach managing director James Lowther said the company put the offer forward 'in good faith' and will 'review the decision carefully'.