“Complex” repairs to get broadband and landline back on for 880 homes and businesses have been pushed back.
After thieves stole 175-metres of underground cable in Park Road, Rickmansworth, at around 5.35pm on October 3, Openreach confirmed that 880 local homes and businesses faced disruption.
Wednesday (October 11) was initially given as the estimated fix time, although it was always subject to change, but this has since been pushed back to October 16.
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Today (October 13), An Openreach spokesperson said: "Our engineers are working hard to get people in the Rickmansworth area re-connected, after 175m of underground copper cable was stolen, impacting phone and broadband services to around 880 homes and businesses.
“Engineers are making progress with what are complex repairs and aim to have everyone effected back up and running in the next few days."
After the theft, the cable was apparently dragged into Fortune Common where it is believed the vehicle towing it got stuck. It is thought the thieves may have worn high visibility clothing to pose as legitimate workers.
The BT owned telecom company described the theft as “really disappointing” because local people face “unacceptable disruption” and vulnerable people are put at risk by the criminal behaviour.
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