Ofcom has recognised that investment and competition in fibre networks will vary by geography and therefore it proposes that regulation should also vary by region.
The watchdog has issued a consultation document that sets out its initial views on how to define geographic markets from 2021 when it carries out its next review of wholesale telecoms networks.
In a statement Ofcom said, 'We plan to consult on a full set of market proposals, including market definition, market power assessment and remedies for fixed network services, by autumn 2019'.
Commenting on the development, Adrian Baschnonga, EY’s Telecoms Lead Analyst, said: “Ofcom’s latest consultation underlines the importance of flexible rules when it comes to fibre infrastructure.
"Levels of competition and willingness to invest vary by geography, and a more nuanced appraisal of the UK’s infrastructure landscape will play a key role in the regulation of fibre in years to come.”