Additional network complexity driven by the demand for new broadband services increases the need for network control and management signalling. This paper takes stock of this trend and suggests an approach within the context of IEEE P.1520 to separate signalling and associated broadband intelligent services from multimedia data transport so that each may be developed to their full potential. The authors draw on their experience of development of two signalling systems, one a TINA NRA inspired Connection Management System, and the second based on the P.1520.3 Programmability Architecture, in proposing a new Signalling Transport Service Provider role.