The number of unbundled lines over BT's copper network has hit six million today, according to OfCom.
Unbundled lines allow for rival companies, such as Sky or Carphone Warehouse, to provide their own equipment and broadband services to consumers or businesses over BT's existing network.
Initially most people could only receive broadband or landline facilities from BT, but in 2005 Ofcom came to an agreement with the company that it should be opened up, leading to the creation of the Openreach division to handle competitors' services.
This has led to an increase in competition and in turn a lowering of costs, according to Ofcom. Its figures showed that in 2005 people would pay an average of 23.30 for their copper broadband services. This figure has now fallen to just 13.61.
Ed Richards, chief executive of Ofcom, said in a statement: "In just four years unbundling has gone from a flicker on the dial to a major competitive force in telecoms. This has delivered the dual benefits of driving up broadband take-up and driving down prices."
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