A new full-fibre network in Sunderland will be rolled out by United Living, improving internet services and using local contractors to boost the city’s economy
CityFibre have awarded United Living Group a £30m contract to install a new full-fibre network in Sunderland, boosting the city’s performance in an increasing digital workspace and economy.
The outsized performance of full fibre compared to broadband delivered via copper telephone lines can be attributed to having less interference and keeping signal strength over much greater distances, allowing for a higher frequency rate.
Residents can choose to connect to full fibre-enabled broadband services when they go live
The works will see United Living lay fibre cable across the city, starting in Hendon and Southwick wards, and complete aerial works in the area.
Expected to complete in 2025, local homes and businesses will have access to full-fibre services from a choice of internet service providers including Vodafone, TalkTalk, and Zen, with other providers expected to join the network soon.
The next areas for the rollout are Ryhope, Millfield and St. Michaels wards.
United Living will also hire local contractors to perform key services necessary to complete the project, helping to build sustainable partnerships locally.
As the network is completed in each neighbourhood, CityFibre will designate the homes ‘ready for service’, which means residents can choose to connect to full fibre-enabled broadband services when they go live in their area.
The full-fibre network in Sunderland will use MMC to minimize disruption
Conor Bray, chief operating officer, United Living Group commented: “We have been working with customers in the Northeast since 2005, maintaining the critical infrastructure and providing local jobs, so we are delighted to be part of this ongoing project to help increase productivity, innovation, and opportunities for the people of Sunderland through CityFibre’s full fibre rollout.
“Throughout the project, United Living will adhere to considerate constructor principles, and ensure that disruption throughout is minimised by utilising modern construction techniques.”
Jason Legget, regional partnership director for CityFibre, said: “CityFibre has been making great progress in Sunderland and the residents we have spoken to have been amazed at just how much fibre we have installed over the past year. We are delighted to announce the appointment of United Living who will be building alongside Novo-Technologies.
“The CityFibre network will provide access to the very best full fibre infrastructure, helping to unlock better connectivity and opportunities for residents and businesses across Sunderland.”
