Construction begins on next-generation broadband network for Bamford and Whitworth

BeFibre

A major infrastructure project to build a faster broadband service in Bamford and Whitworth, has now begun

UK telecommunication infrastructure provider Digital Infrastructure has commenced the build of its future-proofed network, in the latest phase of a targeted £100m private investment to upgrade customers’ connections. Once complete, the network will be operated by next-generation internet provider BeFibre.

The start of the construction project means residents of Bamford and Whitworth will soon be able to enjoy broadband speeds 13 times faster than the the fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) coverage that currently spans the majority of the UK.

Digital Infrastructure and BeFibre plan to deliver fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) connectivity for over 18,000 properties. With a phased roll-out scheduled, the first homes can expect to be connected by summer 2023 and the aim is to reach a total of 80 locations and 1,000,000 premises by 2027.

FTTP download and upload speeds can be fast enough to download a 1-hour TV programme in only 7 seconds, or 500 Spotify songs in 25 seconds, for example.

Commenting on the roll out, Louise Elliott, chief customer and operations officer for BeFibre and Digital Infrastructure said: “As a country, there’s a lot of work to be done in the UK, to provide communities with the internet connectivity they truly need. That’s why we’re working hard – and at pace – to deliver a future-proofed broadband network in areas that have been underserved, to date.

“We’re working quickly, utilising existing ducts so we don’t have to dig up Bamford and Whitworth’s roads. This is less disruptive, allows us to connect homes faster, and it’s better for the environment too.”