On Tuesday, MEPs in the Industry, Research and Energy Committee adopted their negotiating position on draft legislation that would reduce the costs of deploying gigabit-capable networks (which can allow data downloads at a speed of 1 gigabit per second). It seeks to stimulate investments in digital infrastructure, foster economic growth and ensure that European businesses remain at the forefront of global innovation.

The Act would simplify, reduce the cost, and expedite administrative procedures for granting permits, reduce bureaucratic hurdles for operators and national administrations, thereby making the deployment process smoother and faster. In their amendments, MEPs reduce the time that national authorities have to take a decision on whether to grant a permit from four to two months.

Measures would facilitate access to physical infrastructure such as buildings, rooftops, facades and street furniture. They would also encourage existing physical infrastructures, such as ducts,…