CityFibre, the UK’s largest independent full fibre platform, recently hosted Angus Robertson, Member of the Scottish Parliament for Edinburgh Central, for a tour of the ongoing £100 million full fibre network construction project in Edinburgh.
During the visit, CityFibre representatives introduced Angus Robertson MSP and Cllr Finlay McFarlane to the world of full fibre digital infrastructure, considered the pinnacle of network technology. The tour also included a visit to one of CityFibre’s Fibre Exchanges (FEx), which is part of a rapidly expanding network of power-efficient micro-edge data centres. These centres play a crucial role in delivering, managing, and monitoring live services and data across CityFibre’s network.
Full fibre networks, unlike much of today’s household digital infrastructure, rely on 100% fibre optics to transmit data at high speeds directly from users’ homes to the point of connection. This technology provides consistently high upload and download speeds (up to 1,000 Mbps), virtually unlimited bandwidth, and dependable connectivity.
The advantages of a full fibre connection extend beyond providing high-speed entertainment access. Recognized as an essential digital utility, full fibre enhances both household and business capabilities. Experts assert that it will drive various economic benefits, including increased productivity and innovation.
A report commissioned by CityFibre, conducted by consultancy Hatch (Economic Impact of Full Fibre Infrastructure from CityFibre’s Network), outlines the positive impacts of CityFibre’s £100 million private investment in Edinburgh over a fifteen-year period. These impacts include £934 million in productivity and innovation gains, £206 million from an expanded workforce, and £540 million in increased housing value.
The report also highlights technological advancements facilitated by CityFibre’s network in Edinburgh. It is expected to unlock £2 billion in GVA from 5G services, £409 million from the Internet of Things, and £394 million from Smart City initiatives, such as intelligent traffic management systems and street lighting.
Paul Wakefield, Area Manager for Edinburgh at CityFibre, emphasized the significant potential benefits for Edinburgh. He showcased the growth of CityFibre’s network across the city and demonstrated the technology employed in the construction process.
Angus Robertson, Member of the Scottish Parliament for Edinburgh Central, expressed his fascination and encouragement at witnessing the ambitious project firsthand. He looks forward to the benefits that the project will bring to residents and businesses across the city.
CityFibre collaborates closely with Edinburgh City Council and local communities to ensure a swift rollout while minimizing potential disruptions.
As each neighborhood’s network construction is completed, CityFibre will designate the homes as “ready for service,” allowing residents to connect to full fibre-enabled broadband services when they become available in their area.
In Edinburgh, full fibre services are currently available from launch partner Vodafone, as well as TalkTalk and Zen, with others expected to join the network soon.
