Proximus, Fiberklaar, Telenet, and Wyre are permitted to implement their collaboration on fiber networks in Flanders. As a result, more than two million homes and businesses are to become fiber-ready by 2037, with the bulk of the rollout completed by 2029.
The Belgian Competition Authority (BMA) approved the collaboration signed in April on July 23. Fiberklaar, a subsidiary of Proximus, and Wyre, a subsidiary of Telenet and Fluvius, are dividing areas with average population density. In each area, one of the two parties will handle the installation. The other party will be granted access to the network.
Single network builder
The partners aim to avoid double work through this division. Fiberklaar or Wyre will carry out the fiber rollout in a designated area, while other interested providers can connect their customers via the same network. This applies not only to Proximus and Telenet but also to other operators seeking access.
According to the companies involved, this will allow households and businesses to be connected to fiber more quickly. At the same time, the collaboration should limit the nuisance caused by excavation work. The installed networks should enable internet speeds up to ten times higher than today. The BMA set conditions for the collaboration and network access, under the supervision of telecom regulator BIPT.
Rollout varies by region
The collaboration does not apply to the most densely populated urban areas. There, Proximus, Fiberklaar, and Wyre will continue to roll out networks separately, allowing multiple networks to coexist. In rural areas with low population density, Wyre is opting to upgrade its existing HFC network. This network is intended to enable higher speeds and multi-gigabit connectivity.
Proximus will gradually migrate customers in those rural areas to Wyre’s HFC network. Other operators can also offer services there. Fiberklaar and Wyre will adjust planned works and permit applications where necessary.
Furthermore, the companies are launching an information campaign for cities and municipalities. More than two million homes and businesses must become fiber-ready, largely by 2029 and the remainder by 2037. With this, the collaboration enters a new implementation phase.
Compared to other European countries, Belgium is lagging behind in the fiber rollout. This is primarily the result of a slow start. By joining forces, the sector aims to close the gap.