Much as reported during the summer, the governments updated traffic congestion proposals could hamper broadbands progress. The concern centres on charging operators for carrying out street work and increased fines for delays if it isn't completed on time:

So say the bosses of telcos Thus, Kingston Communications, Cable & Wireless, BT and Colt, who wrote to the FT yesterday warning that proposals contained in the Government's Traffic Management Bill could hit the roll-out of broadband.

Telcos are concerned that the new legislation - which include charging telcos for carrying out street works and increased fines for delays in digging up roads - "fails to recognise the critical importance of broadband communications to businesses and the UK economy".

"Unless the government balances the competing needs of road transport and e-commerce, it risks undermining the UK's economic growth and international competitiveness," said the chief execs.

Similar concerns were raised during mid-2003, yet to date they appear to have had little impact on the governments plan. Operators likely to be hit the most are probably cable co's, which must dig up the road in order to install their lines.

On the flip side and such charges may benefit Wireless technologies, yet could potentially hamper the introduction of ADSL to more rural areas. More @ The Register.