Over the past several days, I’ve been contacted by a number of residents who are understandably concerned about the planned installation of telegraph poles by Connexin in our area. I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to get in touch — your voices matter, and I take your concerns seriously.
I received an update from Connexin’s Community Engagement Officer, outlining their upcoming plans to install IoT (Internet of Things) gateways throughout the ward. These devices are designed to help manage and monitor key energy and water usage. I am told that, while the goal is to help create a smarter, more connected community, the current proposal includes the installation of new telegraph poles in certain locations.
Connexin had originally intended to utilise existing streetlight infrastructure for this rollout. Unfortunately, due to technical limitations — particularly the need for clear access to radio signals — they now believe additional poles are necessary in some areas to ensure reliable connectivity and coverage.
While the technology itself may bring long-term benefits, I fully appreciate that the introduction of new poles raises valid concerns, especially around visual impact, local character, and planning transparency.
Let me reassure you:
- I am in contact with Connexin and have asked for clear, public information on the exact locations of any proposed poles in our ward.
- All proposed locations are being shared with the Council's planning departments before installation for validation and approval.
- Connexin has committed to informing residents who may be directly affected ahead of any work taking place.
- I have asked that they give all due consideration into looking at other ways they could provide this service which don't include a spread of telegraph poles or digging the pavements up.
Residents may have recently seen in the local newspaper that Norfolk County Council, as the council responsible for highways, have opposed this scheme and asked if other methods to collect this data can be explored.
I have asked for a direct email address which I can share with my constituents, not an online form somewhere is the ether, so if you have specific concerns or questions about the installation, Connexin’s build team can be contacted directly at [email protected].
I will continue to monitor this closely and provide further updates as soon as I receive more information. In the meantime, please continue to share your views with me. Your feedback helps me to speak up effectively on your behalf and ensure that the community's voice is heard throughout this process.
