Borderlink, trading as GoFibre, has started the construction of a new full-fibre broadband network to connect over 3,750 hard-to-reach homes and businesses in the region. Construction has officially commenced in rural North Northumberland as part of the UK government's Project Gigabit scheme.
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With planning and surveying completed over the last six months in collaboration with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and Northumberland County Council, the network is expected to be operational as early as autumn 2023, bringing lightning-fast and future-ready connectivity to these communities.
Expansion of Coverage
According to the official release, the construction phase will continue until 2025 and will encompass several towns and communities, including Berwick-upon-Tweed, Seahouses, Wooler, Belford, and neighbouring areas. These locations have been identified as lacking adequate broadband infrastructure, leaving residents and businesses at a disadvantage.
Benefits of Gigabit-Capable Networks
GoFibre says Gigabit-capable networks, such as full-fibre broadband, offer unparalleled speeds and reliability, surpassing the limitations of ageing copper networks. Currently, more than 74 percent of the UK can access gigabit connections; however, these are predominantly available in urban areas.
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Enhanced Connectivity for Residents
The GoFibre project in rural Northumberland is a significant step in this direction as the UK government has committed Euros 5 billion to enable communities struggling with poor connectivity to join the digital age. Once the network is operational, local residents will have access to speeds of up to 10 Gbps, revolutionizing their digital experience.
Expansion to Other Areas
In addition to the Northumberland project, GoFibre says they are also working with DSIT and Durham County Council in Teesdale to fulfil their first contract award for Project Gigabit, which was secured last year. The initiation of construction on the full-fibre broadband network in rural Northumberland is a promising development for the region.
