[MovedGoalPosts]

ntl may have a larger network infrastructure than Telewest. Yes they are not in competition with TW (but they are with the BT based network suppliers). If it is going to take untill well into next year before the programme is complete there must be a real risk to ntl that they will find themselves playing catch up with rival networks who could have already surpassed this. Indeed it's an interesting game between cable and ADSL over BT type lines as to who can actually implement the faster services first.

Having a larger network though should ntl be an excuse as to why everything takes a lot longer. If you have a large network you should have proportionately larger resources to support the capacity and implement those changes.

ntl announced their intention to upgrade. That no doubt has been based on an assesment that it can be done. It is reasonable that an overnight roll out cannot be expected, and indeed we are used to a phased rollout over the network of these types of upgrade. If ntl have adequate resources they should be able to match a rollout pace of similar groups?

However it is perhaps noting the recent upgrades to the 1, 2 or 3mb tiers now available. If memory serves a long phased rollout programme was forecast, yet in fact many customers were able to get the upgrade within a fortnight of each other, if they could get through to CS who were a little overwhelmed with demand.