AROUND 80 per cent of the Island's 50,000 landline phone lines have been changed to the Next Generation Network (NGN).

It is part of Manx Telecom's £25 million programme to replace the entire fixed, mobile and broadband network with an internet protocol (IP) telecommunications system.

During the switchover, which was started in November 2010, Manx Telecom has used enough wire to go around the Island's coastline. By the time engineers have finished they will have used 182 miles of wire.

Mike Readshaw, the NGN programme manager, said: "We have now completed around 80 per cent of the 50,000 lines which have to be switched to NGN.

"It's been a huge and complex task and our engineers have been migrating up to 200 lines per day.

"But all of this work and investment is worth it for the long term benefits NGN will bring in ensuring that the Island continues to have a world class telecommunications infrastructure."

The work to replace the old network with the new IP system has involved thousands of hours of work. The majority of the old equipment which is being replaced will be recycled and sold to UK suppliers.

Due to the size and complexity of the switchover Manx Telecom is unable to provide specific dates and times for the changeover of individual lines. If customers do experience any problems with their service they should phone the helpline on 01624 624624.

For more information about the NGN migration process visit www.manxtelecom.com/ngn.