The Adopt a Kiosk programme is an innovative, new initiative recently launched by BT. Where there is limited use of the public payphone service, a local authority can apply to take ownership of red telephone box(es) effectively free of charge thereby protecting the heritage of a community..
In summary, the kiosk will remain in situ as opposed to BT removing it as part of the ongoing programme of payphone removals. BT will remove the telephone equipment before transferring ownership to the local authority, who will be responsible for ongoing maintenance and upkeep.
The Sponsored Kiosk programme is similar to the Adopt a Kiosk initiative in that it allows local authorities the opportunity to protect the heritage of the community by retaining public payphones in their regions. However it differs in that while usage of the payphone service will be limited, a local authority may want to keep the payphone service in its entirety. In such instances, the authorities can decide to “sponsor” the service, contributing towards the costs of maintenance rather than asking BT to remove the service altogether.
3. What is the difference between the two programmes?
Authorities that Adopt a Kiosk will retain the kiosk only (i.e. minus the payphone itself). Additionally this programme only applies to red kiosks. The Sponsored programme offers authorities the opportunity to retain a complete service by contributing towards the costs of maintenance.
4. Who can apply for the Adopt a Kiosk/Sponsored Kiosk programme?
Any recognised local authority throughout England, Scotland and Wales can apply, as long as they comply with the terms and conditions of either programme.
8. What information is needed in order to apply for Adopt a Kiosk/Sponsored Kiosk?
Authorities should review the contractual agreements that are available to download from this site. A signed, completed contract needs to be submitted with the online application.
In addition to the telephone number of the box(es), to Adopt a Kiosk an MPAN number from the local power company is required so that the power supply can be transferred. To Sponsor, simple contact and billing details will be required so that BT can submit annual invoices.
9. Are there any planning regulations which need to be complied with?
Local authorities must apply to the relevant authorities for any of the necessary consents to retain a kiosk. Further details can be found in the contracts.
11. When to apply to Adopt a Kiosk/Sponsored Kiosk?
Applications for Adopt a Kiosk/Sponsored Kiosk should be submitted before Nov 1st. Applications received after this date could be rejected because the kiosk in question may have already been removed.
The Adopt a Kiosk programme only applies to Red kiosks but it is not restricted to those kiosks that have been part of recent public consultations. Authorities are required to agree that BT can remove the telephone service and as owners, the authorities will be responsible for ongoing maintenance.
A Meter Point Administration Number or MPAN number is a 21 digit reference number, used across the UK to determine electricity supply points.
Where a kiosk is powered it is probable that BT will require a local authority's MPAN number. The number is required to transfer the billing for a kiosks power supply. Where required an applicant will be prompted to input their number before their application can be submitted. Please note, BT requires the MPAN number of the authority that is applying to adopt the kiosk, not the number for the current electricity supply to that kiosk. Local power companies will be able to supply this.
While the majority of powered kiosks will require an MPAN number before an application can be submitted, not all do. The online application process will automatically prompt an applicant if a number is required. When prompted, an application can not be submitted without a valid number being entered.
For further information on MPAN numbers click here. Please note this is an external website and BT is not responsible for the information contained within.
Where a kiosk is powered it is probable that BT will require a local authorities MPAN number. The number is required to transfer the billing for a kiosks power supply, and if required, an application can not be processed without it.
It is easy to establish whether an MPAN number is required before an application can be submitted. Click on the "Apply Now" link for Adopt a Kiosk before entering the telephone number(s) of the kiosks in question. Click "select for adoption" for each individual kiosk until all the required kiosks have been selected. Click "next" where all the kiosks will then be listed, those that require an MPAN will have a space to enter the number displayed.
22. How have BT communicated this programme to local authorities?
BT has written to all Unitary Authorities across England, Scotland and Wales. Letters have been sent to both Planning Officers and Conservation Officers
BT has written to all Unitary Authorities across England, Scotland and Wales that have red kiosks included in the current street removals programme. Letters have been sent to both Planning Officers and Conservation Officers.
In addition, we have written to MPs or Parish Councils where they specifically requested information on the proposals.
25. What happens if a consultation is still ongoing? Should authorities apply?
Yes, authorities should apply immediately if they are interested in either scheme. Details of kiosks that have been applied for should be clearly marked "Adopt" on any subsequent consultation responses.
26. Can authorities apply for a kiosk to be re-installed?
Unfortunately it is not possible to re-install kiosks that have already been removed. If interested authorities should apply as early as possible in order to minimise the potential for kiosks to be removed.
Sorry, the Adopt a Kiosk programme only applies to existing red kiosks. Where there is already a K6 in situ local authorities can apply to retain the housing only as opposed to the kiosk being removed as part of the street removals programme. We do not offer a facility to replace different kiosk types with red kiosks.
