It's no secret that UK Connectivity is undergoing a major evolution. As we collectively move towards the full-fibre future where analogue products are replaced - legacy infrastructure will no longer be needed.
We currently serve our partners through 3,000+ UK exchanges, connecting customers nationwide. Over the past two years, we've piloted and refined our processes, laying a strong foundation for transforming EAD and broadband services.
We have already moved 100,000+ circuits and closed 10 exchanges, consolidating assets and enhancing space and power efficiency. Now, our Exchange Evolution programme is set to shape a smarter, future-ready network.
Openreach Exchange Exit Plans
Rationalising the network from 5.5k exchanges to 1.1k.
Openreach will begin by closing 108 exchanges by 2030 (including 3 pilots by November 2025 in Deddington, Ballyclare and Kenton Road which are already in stop-sell).
In preparation for this, a stop-sell in the remaining 105 exchanges has commenced from 1st April 2025.
Further phases will follow to achieve the Single Fibre Network (SFN).
Our Exchange Evolution Programme
Aligning with the long-term strategy for a Single Fibre Network.
10 exchanges have closed to date as part of a simple trial.
Phase 1 - A further 10 exchanges will be closed by end November 2025.
Phase 2 - As the next stage of our pilot, we intend to exit from a further 100 low volume exchanges by end February 2026.
Future - Our exchange footprint evolves at pace with the move from copper to full fibre.
Deep Dive
Deep Dive
Hear from our Senior Leaders
Chief Operating and Technology Officer, Phil Haslam and Chief Sales and Product Strategy Officer, Paul Smith sit down to explain what our Exchange Evolution programme means for the industry and our partners.
Network
Network
The Timeline

Exchange Evolution
Exchange Evolution
Our Approach
We understand that this is a significant period of change, and we're committed to supporting you every step of the way. It’s crucial that we work together to successfully migrate your customers to future-proof services. Read below to learn how we’re approaching the following aspects of this transition with you.
Future-ready Products
Future-ready Products
Explore the options
As we begin to retire legacy technologies and services now is the ideal time to understand more about what this means for you, your customers and the solutions available at PXC.
To understand which products are affected by these changes and the alternative solutions available click here.
Exchange Evolution
Exchange Evolution
FAQ
Why are Openreach closing exchanges?
As part of the nationwide move towards full fibre, Openreach has announced their intention to exit exchanges that will no longer be needed to support FTTP, FTTC or Ethernet services. Openreach’s 5,600 exchanges were originally built for the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), but only about 1,000 are now needed for modern fibre services.
Will my customers be affected by the closures?
We will be notifying all affected partners in advance of exchange closures, so you have time to consider the best options for your customers. Please keep an eye out for emails from us, and updates to this page with further details.
What do I need to do to support my customers?
Customers who are currently using legacy technologies will need to be migrated to future-proof products to ensure they continue to benefit from great connectivity services in the future. Please refer to the ‘Our Approach’ sections for further information and details about next steps.
Where can I find more information about my data?
Please refer to the dedicated information and FAQ page about your data here.
Where can I find more information about Product Switching?
Please refer to the dedicated information and FAQ page about product switching here.
Where can I find more information about CNI and Vulnerable Customers?
Please refer to the dedicated information and FAQ page about CNI and Vulnerable customers here.
My question hasn't been answered.
If you have a specific question that has not been covered here, please click here to complete our form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.