CityFibre Launches £58 Million Broadband Rollout in Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and East Berkshire
In a significant move towards enhancing digital connectivity in the UK, CityFibre has officially commenced the construction phase of its ambitious £58 million broadband rollout. This initiative, part of the government-supported Project Gigabit, aims to expand CityFibre’s full fibre (FTTP) network to cover 34,000 of the hardest-to-reach premises in Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and East Berkshire. When combined with their complementary commercial build, the total coverage could extend to an impressive 150,000 premises.
Understanding Project Gigabit
Project Gigabit is a government initiative overseen by Building Digital UK (BDUK), designed to extend high-speed broadband access across the nation. With the goal of increasing 1Gbps (download) capable networks from the current 85% coverage to nearly universal access (approximately 99%) by 2030, the project is a crucial step in bridging the digital divide. While commercial investments are expected to account for over 80% of this expansion, the government’s scheme focuses on addressing the final 10-20% of areas, primarily rural and some suburban regions, where private sector efforts often fall short.
CityFibre’s Role in the Digital Landscape
CityFibre, owned by a consortium of investors including Antin Infrastructure Partners, Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Mubadala Investment Company, and Interogo Holding, is at the forefront of this digital transformation. The company has garnered support from various UK Internet Service Providers (ISPs) such as Vodafone, TalkTalk, Zen Internet, and Sky Broadband, although availability may vary by location due to technical constraints and exclusivity agreements.
The current construction work for Lot 26 has begun in East Berkshire and Buckinghamshire, with plans to extend into Hertfordshire by 2025. This rollout is part of CityFibre’s broader ambition to connect up to 8 million UK premises with their state-of-the-art 2.5Gbps speed network, funded through a combination of £2.4 billion in equity, £4.9 billion in debt, and £800 million in public subsidy from BDUK.
Impact on Local Communities
The implications of this rollout are profound. By providing high-speed internet access to previously underserved areas, CityFibre is not only enhancing connectivity but also empowering local communities. Greg Mesch, CEO of CityFibre, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We’re thrilled to be bringing world-class digital infrastructure to East Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Hertfordshire, helping to ensure no one is left behind.” He emphasized the importance of transitioning from outdated copper networks to next-generation full fibre services, which are set to revolutionize how people work, relax, and communicate.
Current Progress and Future Prospects
As of May 2024, CityFibre has successfully covered around 3.8 million premises and connected 400,000 customers. The ongoing construction in East Berkshire and Buckinghamshire marks a significant milestone in their journey towards achieving comprehensive coverage across the UK. With the backing of substantial financial resources and a clear vision for the future, CityFibre is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in the UK’s digital landscape.
Conclusion
CityFibre’s £58 million broadband rollout in Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and East Berkshire represents a critical step towards achieving universal high-speed internet access in the UK. As the construction phase unfolds, the benefits of enhanced connectivity will ripple through local communities, fostering economic growth and improving quality of life. With Project Gigabit paving the way for a more connected future, the UK is on the brink of a digital revolution, and CityFibre is leading the charge.
Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project progresses!