CityFibre speeds up Lowestoft’s digital transformation

Work to transform Lowestoft into one of the world’s best digitally connected towns is underway

Lowestoft is celebrating a major milestone in its digital transformation with work now well underway to build a full fibre network to reach almost every home and business in the town.

CityFibre is investing at least £14m in Lowestoft to deliver this transformational project, as part of its nationwide plan to replace the country’s ageing copper-based networks with gigabit-capable full fibre connectivity.

Full fibre is currently available to less than 13 per cent of premises across the UK. It is revered as the best in connectivity for its speed, near unlimited bandwidth and reliability. By using fibre optic cables for every stage of the connection from the customer’s home or business to the internet, users will be offered a significantly superior and more reliable broadband service, capable of Gigabit speeds (1,000 Mbps).

The network is not yet live, but once activated, services will be available from an increasing range of broadband providers. Across the UK CityFibre is already working with launch partner Vodafone to deliver next generation broadband services, and TalkTalk is expected to join the network soon.

Specialist contractor Lite Access Technologies is delivering the construction programme on CityFibre’s behalf and work is already in progress in the Harbour and Normanston areas. As key workers, CityFibre has been asked by the UK Government to continue to expand the nation’s digital capacity. All contractors are being urged to follow the social distancing protocols as outlined by Public Health England to ensure build partners’ safety.

The company is using modern build techniques to deploy the network quickly, while working closely with East Suffolk Council, Suffolk County Council and local communities to manage disruption and ensure a fast, successful roll-out.

Speaking of the project, Charles Kitchin, CityFibre’s City Manager for Lowestoft, said: “Full Fibre connectivity and next generation broadband services will transform the lives people in Lowestoft. This goes far beyond simply helping households access the latest entertainment at lightning speed. The benefits are far deeper, from enabling smart home technology to giving people the freedom to work from home with ease.

“As well as enhancing our home lives, CityFibre’s full fibre network will give the town’s business community the platform they need to realise their growth ambitions. By connecting properties at up to 1000Mbps we’re putting Lowestoft firmly in the top tier of all UK towns and cities for connectivity and establishing it as a globally competitive digital destination.”

Cllr Stephen Burroughes, Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Operational Partnerships, East Suffolk Council, said: “We welcome this private investment by CityFibre to deliver a modern, fit-for-purpose digital infrastructure that will futureproof residents and businesses.

“East Suffolk Council continues to work closely with the private sectors to facilitate economic growth in the digital age and CityFibre’s full fibre network will be vital in ensuring Lowestoft has a resilient and dynamic economy for years to come.”

Carlo M. Shimoon, President and CEO at Lite Access Technologies, said: “We are delighted to support CityFibre's plans as it develops and continues to grow its broadband network to serve Lowestoft.

“At Lite Access, we are a full-service fibre construction partner and are committed to delivering quality projects and meeting the highest health and safety standards with a minimum disruption to communities, residents and businesses.”

If residents are interested in full fibre broadband, they can pre-register interest with CityFibre and will receive information when services are available.

To pre-register interest, visit: https://www.cityfibre.com/residential/