Members of the Senedd and their support staff had the opportunity to explore Openreach’s cutting-edge technology during a recent drop-in event at the Senedd. Openreach’s Wales Board members and engineers were on hand to provide insights into the innovative technology driving the expansion of the Full Fibre network across Wales.
The event offered Senedd Members (MSs) the chance to learn about Openreach’s use of virtual reality (VR) headsets and submersible drones in delivering some of the fastest and most reliable broadband speeds in Europe to Wales. MSs also had the unique experience of trying their hand at fibre splicing, a critical aspect of network construction, under the guidance of apprentice engineers Hannah Davies and Lewis Erskine.
Kim Mears, Chair of Openreach Wales Board, emphasized the significant impact that reliable ultrafast internet connections can have on businesses and households. Openreach has already reached over 630,000 homes and businesses in Wales with ultrafast Full Fibre technology, but the commitment to further expansion remains unwavering. Mears acknowledged that this engineering endeavor is one of the largest of its kind in this generation and commended the dedicated work of Openreach engineers across the country.
Full Fibre broadband offers not only remarkable speed but also enhanced reliability, resilience, and future-proof connectivity. It results in fewer faults, consistent speeds, and the capacity to accommodate multiple devices simultaneously.
The drop-in event was sponsored by Huw Irranca-Davies MS for Ogmore, who emphasized the critical importance of robust broadband connections, both at home and in the workplace. Upgrading digital infrastructure to Full Fibre is seen as essential, as it offers superior speed and reliability, aligning with the evolving needs of modern society.
