COTSWOLD residents are on the edge of their seats after having their day in court after broadband poles were installed against their wishes.

Residents of Broadway attended a judicial review after broadband poles were "forcibly installed" almost one year ago. 

The review, held on October 22, focused on Wychavon District Councils decision to allow the installation of the poles.

Whilst residents thought an outcome might have been announced on the day they expect to wait months after the judge decided to "take more time before making a final decision". 

Residents still hope the review will set a precedent for other villages across the country who may have poles installed.

Amanda Grey a member of the Lifford Gardens and Sands Residents Association said: "It's nice that we have had our day in court. 

"The judge did not reach a decision and said he will be giving a written verdict but he gave no indication as to when we will know.  

"He did acknowledge that there were some knotty issues to untangle and that it was not straightforward but it was quite positive. 

"We were very happy that the judge took the time to listen to both sides and we are just waiting for an outcome."

The poles were "forcibly" installed by Full Fibre in November 2023. 

Residents say the poles are a blight on the landscape and are "useless" as most people use cables underground. 

Local authorities lack the power to prevent the installation of communications poles under 15m and have no power to remove them once installed.

More than 20 residents attended the judicial review. 

She continued: "It was a very long day so we appreciate that the judge took time to hear our side of the story and is not rushing the decision. 

"It could be weeks or months before we know the outcome but our feeling that it is more likely to be months."

Full Fibre has been approached for comment. 

Speaking before the judicial review Meesha Patel, director of legal and governance for Wychavon District Council said: "Permitted Development Rights means that Wychavon does not have they powers to prevent the installation of poles under 15m, force communication infrastructure to be installed underground or to have poles removed once installed.

"The matter has been listed for hearing before the High Court on Tuesday October 22 and we will present our case accordingly."