Construction of a full fibre broadband network in rural Northumberland is now underway.
Borderlink, trading as GoFibre, aims to connect more than 3,750 hard-to-reach homes and businesses in the region, as part of the UK Government’s Project Gigabit scheme.
The £5 billion programme targets areas not included in broadband suppliers’ plans, reaching parts of the UK that might otherwise miss out on the digital connectivity they need.
Gigabit-capable networks allow communities to upload and download data with little of the disruption associated with ageing copper networks.
It is understood more than 74% of the UK currently has access to gigabit connections – such as full fibre – but this is more common in urban areas.
Since the firm was awarded the contract last Autumn, it has spent the last six months planning and surveying for the build.
Delivery is supported by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and Northumberland County Council.
Construction will take place until 2025.
However, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Seahouses, Wooler, Belford and neighbouring communities should be able to access gigabit-capable (up to 10Gbps) broadband from the Autumn.
“These communities are at real risk of being left behind and so we are thrilled to be addressing the rural digital divide head-on with our North Northumberland build officially underway,” said Neil Conaghan, chief executive officer at GoFibre.
“By way of our partnership with the UK Government and Northumberland County Council, we are implementing a future-proof network which will equip these locations with the tools required to drive innovation and success.
“We are grateful for residents’ patience and understanding during the construction phase and we look forward to them experiencing the great benefits of full fibre connectivity later this year.”
GoFibre is also working with DSIT and Durham County Council in Teesdale, as it continues construction of its first contract win for Project Gigabit, awarded last year.
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