What's New/Current Activities

Telecoms Policy Unit is currently funding a number of technology trials, both as a means of addressing weaknesses in existing services and to further develop its understanding of particular technologies and issues to be addressed in implementation.

Middletown, Co. Armagh

A contract was awarded to Atlas Communications in March 2008 to conduct a sub-loop unbundling trial in Middletown, Co. Armagh.  Under the trial, 12 pilot users were asked to report on the quality of services delivered under the contract.  The trial, which completed in March 2009, is a first for Northern Ireland, with Atlas delivering a range of services up to 24Mbps - services typically available only in cities.  Since completion of the trial, demand for services has been significant and Atlas has launched commercial services for both residential and business users.

Drumsurn, Co. Londonderry

Following award of a contract to North West Electronics to conduct a wireless technology trial in Drumsurn, Co. Londonderry, the pilot is now underway. The pilot will operate for 6 months and up to 40 users will be recruited to provide feedback on the quality of the services provided. The pilot will provide Telecoms Policy Unit with up-to-date information on the ongoing development of wireless technologies.