In this special wrap-up episode recorded live at Connected Britain 2025, host Ian Ginn brings together three of the UK telecoms industry’s most recognisable voices — Raj Kalia (Founder & CEO of Peralia Properties), Paddy Paddison (CEO of INCA), and Harry Baldock (Editor at Total Telecom).

Together, they unpack the big themes from the conference: from collaboration and consolidation in the altnet space to the role of local authorities, Project Gigabit, and the importance of long-term sustainable competition.

The conversation shines a light on how Britain’s connectivity sector is evolving — not just through fibre rollouts and investment, but through community-led initiatives, public–private partnerships, and a shared drive to make digital access equitable for all.

Links & Resources:

• Connected Britain 2025
• Project Gigabit
• Independent Networks Co-operative Association (INCA)
• Total Telecom
• Wildanet
• Peralia Properties

Guests Bio

Raj Kalia is a seasoned infrastructure leader, investor, and board advisor with 20+ years of experience in telecoms and digital transformation. He previously led Building Digital UK (BDUK), managing over £8bn in government programs. Raj is currently focused on acquiring and consolidating businesses in the Telecoms and IT sectors.

Paddy Paddison is CEO of INCA, the trade association for the UK’s independent digital infrastructure sector. Co-founded Wildanet an Altnet in the South West of England. He has over four decades of experience in broadband, telecommunications, and business leadership, and is a strong advocate for competition and innovation in the market. Outside his professional role, Paddy is also a trained jeweller and silversmith.

Harry Baldock is an experienced tech and telecoms journalist, having served as Editor for Total Telecom for the past six years. He writes daily news stories and feature articles on a broad range of topics, from 5G and satellite technologies to AI and digital inclusion. He regularly chairs panels at a variety of industry events and is a judge for the World Communication Awards. Prior to his role at Total Telecom, Harry worked in the medical publishing industry.

Podcast credits:

• Host: Ian Ginn
• Editor: Francis Wright
• Designer: Rebecca Ginn
• Project manager: Ivana Duric

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