Sophia Koopman, Business Development Director

At the heart of our mission is the ability to connect communities with world-class fibre infrastructure. A critical component of this work is securing wayleaves—permissions that allow us to build our network and bring connectivity to homes and businesses across the UK. Our success depends not only on our technical expertise but also on our ability to navigate complex negotiations.

Overcoming challenges to deliver connectivity

One of the biggest challenges in our industry is obtaining the necessary permissions to build networks and connect customers. Whether working with landlords, local authorities, or private landowners, each case can present its own set of hurdles.

At Netomnia, my team is responsible for engaging proactively, addressing concerns, and finding solutions that benefit all parties involved. By doing so, we ensure that no unnecessary delays hinder our progress in delivering ultrafast broadband to those who need it most.

You might wonder, "If these areas are so complex, why focus on them?".

The answer is simple: eventually, every property in the UK will need to upgrade to full-fibre infrastructure to meet the growing digital demand – and no one should be left behind when it comes to world-class connectivity.

The power of collaboration

Delivering broadband infrastructure at scale is a team effort. From legal and planning teams to engineers and community engagement specialists, collaboration is essential to overcoming roadblocks and keeping network deployments on track. Open communication and problem-solving drive our success, ensuring smoother processes and quicker access for customers.

Adapting and innovating in a changing landscape

Wayleaves and permissions can often be unpredictable, requiring us to stay adaptable and innovative. Whether negotiating new agreements, overcoming legal complexities, or streamlining internal processes, our team's resilience and problem-solving mindset keep us moving forward.

To accelerate network access for Multiple Dwelling Units (MDUs), we developed framework wayleave agreements — a proactive solution designed to remove barriers and simplify the process. These agreements, established between Netomnia and local authorities or housing associations, grant us the necessary permissions to extend our network across an entire housing portfolio. By securing these agreements at scale, we unlock access to thousands of properties, enabling faster deployment, broader coverage, and more customers connected.

Looking ahead

2025 is set to be another milestone year as we aim to secure thousands more permissions, expanding our network even further. As we integrate with brsk, we’ll continue to refine our approach, share best practices, and strengthen Netomnia’s position as the UK’s second-largest alternative network provider.

By staying proactive and solutions-focused, we’ll keep pushing boundaries—one permission at a time—bringing better broadband to more homes and businesses across the UK.

Sophia Koopman