Specialist broadband company LilaConnect has started construction of a new full fibre network throughout Bristol that, once completed will provide homeowners and businesses with lightning-fast, stable internet connections, the likes of which have never been seen before in the region.
LilaConnect deploys networks where their fibre optic cables are laid all the way from the signal source directly into the property. This differs from most other major network operators who combine a blend of copper and fibre optic cables often shared between homes and businesses, potentially reducing signal strength, causing slow internet speeds and dropped connections.
The LilaConnect full fibre network Is different from other networks in the UK, in that it is truly ‘Open Access’. Once the fibre optic cable is laid and the premises connected, subscribers can take control of their connection and choose from a range of partner ISPs (Internet Service Providers) or take their broadband service directly from LilaConnect. There’s also the opportunity to add TV and telephone services too, without the need to create bundle packages to secure the best level discounts.
Recent research has shown that each home within the UK has an average of 10.3 devices connected to the internet at any one time, an increase of over 26% since 2017 and that figure is expected to reach more than 50 devices by the year 2023. As part of its ambitious programme to provide full fibre broadband to tens of thousands of homes and businesses across Bristol this transformative network will future-proof the region’s digital infrastructure and provide the stability and broadband width that so many of us crave.
The ‘direct’ full fibre solution gives greater stability reducing the chance for a dropped connection, but it’s the speed and capacity of the service that’s most impressive. Customers who sign- up for a Gigabit service can receive incredibly fast upload and download speeds – up to 1Gbps (Gigabit per second) each way simultaneously, up to 70 times faster than the UK average. If you’re wondering what that looks like, if you’re currently paying for a 60 Mbps connection (the UK average is 71.4 Mbps), a 12GB HD movie might take around 25 minutes to download. A 1 Gigabit service would to the same job in under 2 minutes.
The common problem of slow internet and buffering when multiple devices are being used at the same time, no longer exists with full fibre broadband. Whether someone is trying to work from home whilst their kids are doing their schoolwork, streaming films or online gaming, all can be enjoyed at the same time.
Brett Shepherd, Managing Director at LilaConnect commented:
“Accelerated by the global pandemic, fast and reliable connectivity has shifted from being a luxury to an essential utility. But it’s much more than just streaming video and music or online shopping, it’s also about transforming communities with improvements such as better access to employment, education and healthcare. I’d encourage everyone who can, to switch to the new technology and take advantage of the many benefits that full fibre brings.”
LilaConnect is committed to long-term investment in Bristol and will provide a huge, long term boost for its local economy. Aligned with its other build projects across the UK, LilaConnect is putting community interest at the forefront of its operations.
Bristol residents and business owners will undoubtedly be affected whilst the fibre optic cables are being laid, but LilaConnect will make it an absolute priority to ensure that work is carried out as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Whilst work of this nature will undoubtedly create dust and debris, a dedicated cleaning team will be employed to thoroughly sweep and jet wash pavements and driveways once reinstated tarmac has settled. In addition, the LilaConnect Clean-up team will be deployed to wash windows and cars too. Litter pickers will be out and about to make sure that everything is looking clean and tidy during the dig project, and the Community Engagement and Sales teams will be on-hand to meet with residents, to answer any questions about the project.
Construction has officially commenced in Brentry and Henbury. Residents and businesses interested in connecting to the new LilaConnect full fibre open access network can pre-register their interest at www.lilaconnect.co.uk.
