UK broadband firm VISPA has notified customers that it has stopped operating – and told them to ‘cancel direct debits’. The established provider revealed plans to “commence liquidation proceedings” in an email sent to subscribers.

Launched back in 1999, VISPA told its customer base they would need to “immediately” secure an alternative broadband provider. ISPreview reported.

The firm offered various Openreach-based broadband packages and had recently expanded into full fibre (FTTP) broadband networks, whilst also operating its own Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) network.

However, ISPreview had previously highlighted a range of problems affecting the company, including outstanding debts, complications with the firm’s registered address, and poor feedback on Trustpilot.

The publication has now revealed that numerous VISPA customers received an email from the company’s chief executive, which said: “We are writing to inform you that Vispa Limited has ceased trading and decided to commence liquidation proceedings.

“As a result, we regret to advise that Vispa will no longer be able to continue providing broadband services. To avoid any interruption to your connectivity, you will need to immediately choose a new Internet Service Provider (ISP) as soon as possible.

“Most providers on the Openreach network are able to take over your existing line with minimal disruption. You can find a list of alternative suppliers here: https://www.openreach.com/help-and-support/service-providers-on-our-network

“We also strongly recommend that you cancel any active Direct Debit or standing order you have in place with Vispa Limited to prevent any further payments being taken.

“We understand this news may be inconvenient and we sincerely apologise for the disruption this causes. We would like to thank you for your custom and support over the years.

VISPA director James Ormerod, who signed the correspondence, urged customers to “cancel your direct debit”.

VISPA’s announcement did not give its remaining customers a definitive date for the termination of the service. At present, the VISPA website’s service status page displays “down for maintenance”. It says: “The server is temporarily unable to service your request due to maintenance downtime or capacity problems. Please try again later.”

The Companies House website shows that Vispa Limited has an “active proposal to strike off”, meaning it is in the process of being removed from the register and dissolved.

Customer Dr Fender said on X: “My c***** internet service provider that hosts my domain and email, @vispainternet, has yet again gone down and they’re unresponsive. How do I complain? They’re not registered with the ombudsman or any of the schemes (of course). #Vispa #ISP #complaint.”