Broadband provider CityFibre has secured a significant contract under the government's Project Gigabit initiative, aiming to bring gigabit-capable broadband to up to 45,000 premises across Cambridgeshire. The contract, awarded by Building Digital UK (BDUK), marks a crucial step in the national effort to upgrade the country's digital infrastructure, particularly in areas that have historically been underserved by high-speed internet.
Project Gigabit is a nationwide programme spearheaded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) through BDUK. Its primary objective is to ensure that hard-to-reach communities, often in rural or remote locations, are not left behind in the digital revolution. The programme seeks to deliver fast, reliable broadband connections capable of speeds up to 1,000 Mbps, which are essential for modern work, education, and leisure activities.
The deployment of gigabit-capable broadband involves laying new fibre optic cables directly to homes and businesses, a process known as Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP). This technology offers a significant upgrade over older copper-based networks, providing more stable connections and much faster upload and download speeds. For residents and businesses in the designated Cambridgeshire areas, this will mean a substantial improvement in their internet experience, supporting everything from high-definition streaming and online gaming to cloud computing and remote working.
CityFibre is a prominent player in the UK's full-fibre infrastructure market, with ongoing builds in numerous towns and cities nationwide. Their involvement in Project Gigabit underscores a commitment to expanding their network reach beyond urban centres, aligning with the government's ambitions for widespread digital connectivity. The company will be responsible for the design, build, and operation of the new fibre network in the specified Cambridgeshire locations.
This latest contract award for Cambridgeshire follows similar Project Gigabit announcements across other regions of the UK. The government has set ambitious targets for gigabit broadband coverage, recognising its importance for economic growth, productivity, and social inclusion. By partnering with private sector providers like CityFibre, the programme aims to accelerate the deployment of this critical infrastructure and bridge the digital divide.
The rollout will be phased, with specific areas and timelines to be communicated by CityFibre and BDUK as the project progresses. Local authorities and community groups in Cambridgeshire are expected to work closely with the providers to ensure a smooth and efficient deployment, minimising disruption while maximising the benefits for residents and businesses.