Openreach Decommissions First UK Copper Exchange in Move to Full Fibre Networks

In a significant milestone for the UK’s digital transformation, Openreach has officially decommissioned the Deddington Exchange in Oxfordshire, marking it as the first of 4,600 exchange sites set to be upgraded from traditional copper to digital full fibre infrastructure. This closure also signifies the first-ever shutdown of BT’s copper-based public switched telephone network (PSTN), which carried analogue voice signals. Customers in the area are now fully served by full fibre digital lines through Openreach’s upgraded, high-capacity infrastructure.

Why the Shift to Full Fibre Networks Matters

As a rural exchange, Deddington provides a glimpse into the future of telecommunications, where copper networks are no longer required. With fibre cables replacing copper, the industry is achieving more compact, efficient systems that reduce both physical storage needs and operational costs. Openreach plans to consolidate 4-5 traditional exchanges into one ‘super digital exchange,’ or Openreach Handover Point (OHP). In urban areas, a single OHP may replace as many as 10 legacy exchange sites. This modernised infrastructure not only offers faster and more reliable connectivity but also paves the way for seamless scalability in the years to come.

Complex Migration Process and Challenges

The closure of the Deddington Exchange was not an overnight process. Starting in 2020, Openreach carefully prepared for the migration by analysing legacy equipment and notifying customers well in advance. The full physical migration spanned 26 months and included halting the sale of traditional copper-based services in September 2023. Important efforts were made to accommodate Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), implement updated telehealth and telecare devices, and provide uninterrupted services to vulnerable customers. Working collaboratively with Communication Providers (CPs), Openreach ensured that challenges were met proactively and systems were upgraded seamlessly.

Benefits for Customers and the Industry

The successful decommissioning of the Deddington Exchange showcases the potential advantages for customers and Communication Providers. James Lilley, Managed Customer Migrations Director at Openreach, remarked that the effort will ultimately deliver cost savings for CPs by reducing equipment needs and power usage. End-users can also expect more reliable services with faster speeds. By building this sustainable and future-proofed network, the UK’s telecommunications sector is prepared to address growing digital demands without requiring major upgrades in the foreseeable future.

What’s Next for Openreach?

With Deddington’s legacy copper systems now fully shutdown, Openreach is focusing on removing outdated physical equipment and assessing opportunities for repurposing spare assets. These efforts contribute to sustainability goals while ensuring cost-efficiency. As Openreach continues to work toward exiting 105 priority exchanges by 2030, this initiative signals a bold new era for UK connectivity. More communities will soon benefit from the upgrade to full fibre infrastructure, bridging the digital divide and supporting the country’s transition toward a more efficient and eco-friendly network.