Ofcom has granted the legal firm Code powers under section 106(4)(b) of the Communications Act 2003 to facilitate connections in multi-dwelling units (MDUs) and multi-business units (MBUs).
Code powers are usually sought by network builders directly as they can reduce costs and expedite network deployments by reducing the number of licenses needed for street works. The granting of Code powers should help telecoms companies work with the legal firm to reach occupants in MDUs, private roads, shared driveways, MBUs, and business parks.
Trenches Wayleave also expects the granting of Code powers to help minimise unnecessary proliferation of electronic communications apparatus, contributing to environmental sustainability in line with government objectives.
Terry Daniell, co-founder and operations director, Trenches Law (pictured above, left, alongside Sharon McDermott, the company’s managing director), said, “Seamless connectivity isn’t just about convenience — it’s now an essential lifeline for work, communication, and progress. As a neutral intermediary, we’re committed to fostering productive dialogue between stakeholders to help deliver the digital resources MDU and MBU occupants, amongst others, deserve.
“But it’s not just about bridging the digital divide. Within these challenges also lies a golden opportunity for investors who are keen to leverage a more cost-effective path to growth, with lower average build prices. For landlords responsible for improving connectivity architecture in MDUs and MBUs, a more streamlined, end-to-end process should be welcome news too.”
Trenches Wayleave is a sister company of Trenches Law, focusing on wayleave agreements for electronic communications networks. Trenches Law is undertaking a growth and expansion strategy, with Simon Burckhardt joining the firm in September as non-executive director.