BT Openreach copper line withdrawal delayed until 2027

What is changing

BT and Openreach are retiring the old copper-based analogue line services (PSTN phones and WLR) and replacing them with digital alternatives such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). The aim is to improve reliability, support modern communication needs and prepare for future technology.

The switch-off was first planned for completion by December 2025. It has now been delayed until 31 January 2027, giving broadband providers, telecare providers and businesses more time to adapt.

The new timeline

The extension gives broadband providers, telecare providers and consumers more time to prepare. This is one of the biggest changes to UK telecoms in decades, and good preparation is the key to a smooth migration.

BT said: "Following the industry-wide pause to non-voluntary migrations in December 2023, we now expect to have migrated all customers off the PSTN by the end of January 2027, allowing us to align the programme with full-fibre broadband customer upgrades where available."

How ready is your business?

Take our free PSTN Switch-Off readiness check. Answer eight quick questions and find out how prepared your business is for the move away from PSTN.

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Why the delay?

The delay gives every customer, including those who rely on critical telecare services, enough time to move to modern, reliable communication technology.

What it means for businesses and consumers

Moving from PSTN and WLR to digital services will strengthen the UK's telecoms infrastructure. It also brings challenges and opportunities:

• Broadband providers: more time to upgrade infrastructure and keep services running for their customers.

• Telecare providers: a smoother move to digital telecare, so vulnerable people stay connected and safe.

• Businesses and consumers: time to move to VoIP and fibre broadband without the pressure of an imminent deadline.

The future of communication

The withdrawal of copper services is a major milestone for UK communications. Full-fibre broadband and VoIP promise faster, more reliable and more efficient communication for everyone.

What should you do?

• Stay informed: watch for updates from BT, Openreach and your provider about the timeline and any steps you need to take.

• Review your services: look at what still runs on a copper line, including phones, alarms, payment terminals and lift lines.

• Plan ahead: if you rely on PSTN services, start planning your move now to avoid disruption when the copper network is switched off.

Our commitment

At Fusion Telecoms, we help businesses replace outdated PSTN services with modern alternatives and keep disruption to a minimum. Contact us to find out how we can support your move to digital communications.