The UK’s top rural full fibre broadband alternative network provider, Gigaclear, has announced its commitment to connecting underserved and hard-to-reach communities as it works to extend its network to over 16,000 homes and businesses in Yorkshire. Gigaclear’s full fibre network currently spans 23 counties in southern and central England, and this expansion into Yorkshire represents a continuation of its northward growth.
Beginning in Brayton, engineers will then expand into Cawood, Thorpe Willoughby, and Hillam later this summer. Gigaclear is currently coordinating with North Yorkshire County Council’s highways department and parish councils to devise a timetable for connecting an additional six communities in West and North Yorkshire, ensuring minimal disruption during the roll-out process.
Tony Smith, Gigaclear Delivery Director, commented, “We’ve been planning our move into Yorkshire for many months, so it’s great to actually get feet on the ground and begin the work. Gigaclear is committed to delivering fast and reliable broadband to rural communities across its network, many of whom would otherwise struggle to access ultrafast speeds.” Smith emphasized that reliable and fast broadband speeds are now necessary for people to maintain their daily lives, from working remotely to streaming entertainment and using smart home devices.
To minimize disruption and accelerate the roll-out, Gigaclear’s engineering work will use existing Openreach ducts and poles wherever possible. The company aims to start providing full fibre broadband to customers in Yorkshire by the end of the year.
Earlier this month, Gigaclear secured up to £420m in equity investment from Equitix, supporting its long-term plan to provide service to over one million premises by 2027.
