Can we have some more information on this?

The 0870, is this one number which answers and then you dial the room you require? Or is there a block of numbers which a direct dial to each individual room?

We have far more chance of finding a block of geographical numbers which have the same ending as the 0870 (and/or ext no).

Is there a web link to more information about the phone system? Do you know who runs it?

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Unfortunately we may have more chance of finding a needle in a haystack!

Presumably each extension doesn't have a geographical alternative because there is no need. The 0870 [may] translate to a geographical number which is then answered.

This practice is even more deceiptful, as premiums are being made even when a phone rings unanswered.

Hi,
I had this exact same problem when I was at Uni (not Essex tho). A private company managed the phones but I eventually found the number to dial to bypass it, which began with the area STD code (01782 in my case) and our four-digit extension number. You could dial this extension interanally from other rooms, but appeared at the end of the number you dialled from outside Not sure if it works similarly at Essex, presumably it would begin with 01206 as that's the Colchester code?
Hope this is of some use - and best of luck with beating the scam 0870s!
Regards
Chris.

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This works when there is a separate 0870 number for each room, but for Essex there is just one 0870 number, which is answered by a computerised attendant who then takes the extension number. (As Dave has pointed out, this means they make money even if  the person you are phoning doesn't answer).

The 0870 number was introduced at Essex at the start of this academic year. Before then, the numbers were 01206 53****. The new system most probably utilises voice over IP, and finding the geographical alternative to the 0870 number (if there is one) is very unlikely without inside information.

for university of essex call the university number which is Telephone: +44 (0) 1206 873333 and type in the room extension. it should work. it worked for me. the extension is the same extension dialed when calling te 08702930000 number. however this only works when the university switch board is closed. i think its closed after 5.00PM Essex time. if u call during business hours someone picks up and u can not dial an extension.
let me know what happens.
good luck guys..