The installation of new super-fast internet cables has upset residents on a Glasgow street after claims the firm behind the plans broke a promise to warn of its arrival for a second time.
Hundreds of millions pounds worth of gigabit internet lines that could download movies in moments are currently being installed by Cityfibre - but the firm has been hit with criticism after they allegedly failed to alert those living on the street.
Early on Monday contractors hired on behalf of the tech firm began digging up Aitken Street in Dennistoun.
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Bosses say they are notifying local residents before carving trenches in their pavements to lay cables and, in some cases, cutting off street access for hours at a time. However, Aitken Street locals say they have had no notice of the works whatsoever, reports the Record.
Resident Joseph Elder said: "They're digging up right outside the close, and closed off the pavement with these mad barriers. Some guy who was meant to be here to let people out through the fences has disappeared.
"We've not had a thing through the door. See if there was a notice, we could at least prepare.
"They're digging this big hole, like a trench, and there are no plastic plates across the hole. We can't get out through the back, there's no way out."
Mr Elder added that the works, carried out by contractor GCU Utilities, paled in comparison to those carried out by another broadband firm in the past.
He said: "Virgin were here a couple of years ago and we never had this problem.
"They warned us, they let us all know that they would be working in the street. They never had big barriers like this, it's an absolute horror show. We're suffering."
He has made a complaint to Cityfibre, who have responded.
They said: "We are sorry you have had to raise a complaint. We will begin investigating, there may be a delay in responding for which we apologise."
Four hours after the complaint was lodged, workers were laying plastic plinths to cover the trenches in the pavement on Aitken Street.
Another resident said: "They just turned up and helped themselves. If all these broadband companies put their heads together they could have gotten it all done in the one go."
Cityfibre is adamant that it is providing residents with appropriate notice before it carries out works.
However, those living on Barns Street in Clydebank said engineers from IMS Scotland appeared "without any kind of warning."
David Cannon, CityFibre’s area manager for Glasgow, said: “We’re very sorry to learn about the concerns raised by the local community. The works underway on Aitken Road is part of our full fibre roll out in Glasgow, which is set to future-proof the city’s digital infrastructure for decades to come.
"This is a major undertaking, which is why we are committed to working with all stakeholders to manage disruption as best we can. We also do everything in our power to inform the community ahead of work starting, which includes direct mail, press and speaking directly to individuals.
"We are grateful for the continued support we’ve received from the local community would like to thank everyone for bearing with us as we deliver this critical infrastructure project."
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