This aims to improve high-quality digital connectivity, boost the digital economy in the EU and ensure that all regions can benefit from modern networks.
Main measures
Some of the main points of the regulation are the following:
Access and reuse of existing physical infrastructure: network operators must have reasonable access to existing passive infrastructure (conduits, poles, ducts, etc.), to avoid unnecessary duplication of work.
Single points of information: obligations are created to have "single windows" or information points that facilitate knowing the existing infrastructures and the planned civil works (their location, type, use, etc.).
Coordination of civil works: the aim is to better coordinate the various infrastructure deployment works (for example, when carrying out road works, networks… to take advantage of excavations) in order to reduce costs and inconveniences.
Harmonized permits and processing: the regulation requires Member States to adopt simpler, harmonized procedures with clear deadlines for permits to deploy very high-capacity networks. In some cases, "positive silence" is contemplated (if no response is received within the deadline, the permit is considered granted).
Exemption from authorization for certain minor works: it is noted that certain civil works of little importance (for example, maintenance, small improvements) may be exempt from prior permission, which reduces administrative burdens.
Data transparency: it is required that the georeferenced location of physical infrastructure, its type and use be collected and made available to facilitate deployment planning.
Amendment and repeal
This regulation amends Regulation (EU) 2015/2120 as regards the gigabit network, strengthening connectivity and access obligations.
It repeals Directive 2014/61/EU, which until now regulated measures to reduce the cost of deploying high-speed electronic communications networks.
Validity and application deadlines
The regulation is directly applicable in all Member States without the need for transposition.
It came into effect on November 12, 2025.
Some provisions have deferred application deadlines (for example: certain articles apply from 12 February 2026, others from 12 May 2026).
Expected and key impacts for Spain:
Reduction in the cost and time of deploying fiber optics and 5G networks, which can favor faster and more efficient coverage, especially in rural or hard-to-reach areas.
Improved competition by making it easier for smaller operators to access existing infrastructure instead of having to build everything from scratch.
It affects areas of telecommunications, urban planning, civil works, environment and public administration, requiring coordination between different levels of government (state, regional, local) and between different infrastructures (telecommunications, electricity, transport).
In Spain, operators, regional and local administrations will have to adapt their procedures to comply with deadlines, single windows, georeferencing of infrastructure, permit exemptions for minor works, etc.
Conclusion:
Regulation (EU) 2024/1309 represents a significant step in the European Union's digital strategy, seeking to eliminate barriers to the deployment of very high-capacity networks, reduce costs and timelines, promote infrastructure reuse, and simplify procedures. For Spain, it presents a challenge in adapting regulations and procedures, but also an opportunity to accelerate fiber and 5G coverage and improve connectivity throughout the country.
