Airband, the pioneering broadband provider dedicated to bringing superfast connectivity to coastal and rural communities, has clinched the esteemed ‘Best Community Project’ award at the Independent Networks Co-operative Association (INCA) Awards 2023 in Birmingham. The accolade recognizes Airband’s remarkable efforts in the implementation of the 12,000 cobblestone project, a collaborative initiative with Connecting Devon and Somerset.
This ambitious venture involved the meticulous lifting, preservation, and replacement of 12,000 cobblestones on Clovelly Hill, enabling the installation of cabling that would deliver superfast broadband access to 300 digitally excluded residents in the village. The project, a result of close cooperation between Airband and Connecting Devon and Somerset, was celebrated by industry professionals at the INCA Awards ceremony.
Redmond Peel, CEO of Airband, expressed his sentiments on the win, stating, “Winning this award is a testament to everyone coming together throughout the business to reconnect the people of Clovelly. It is one of the most challenging broadband installations we’ve ever undertaken, and we’re incredibly proud to have brought superfast broadband to the homes and businesses while preserving the famous cobbled streets.”
Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Connecting Devon and Somerset Board Member and Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Skills, extended congratulations to Airband, emphasizing the well-deserved nature of the award. He noted, “Rolling out full-fibre broadband in Clovelly and ensuring that the entire community has access to the network was a monumental and unique undertaking, but Airband was up to the task. Despite the logistical difficulties, including removing and relaying cobbles on incredibly steep gradients, they have taken full fibre connectivity to Clovelly. Connecting Devon and Somerset is extremely proud to have played a part in this build to help make the scheme possible.”
