Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, whether officials in her Department have had discussions with British Telecom on the potential use of former telephone exchange buildings that are vacant and derelict.

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) engages with Openreach on a regular basis to discuss their digital infrastructure plans. DSIT have not had discussions with Openreach about the potential use of former telephone exchange buildings that are vacant and derelict. Exiting exchanges is a long-term endeavour and most exits are expected to happen in early 2030s. Five exchanges are planned to close as part of a trial in the 2024-2025 period. DIST officials remain in contact with Openreach and will aim to discuss how exchange buildings will be repurposed.