CityFibre, the UK’s leading independent full fibre network provider, has achieved a significant milestone by securing wayleaves for over one million properties owned by local authorities and housing associations. These wayleaves simplify the process for residents to upgrade to full fibre broadband without the need for individual permissions from their landlords.
Wayleave agreements are the essential groundwork for establishing connections to new digital networks. They grant installers permission to connect the network to individual premises. Many tenants are legally obligated to ensure their landlords approve such installations. By proactively securing wayleaves, CityFibre streamlines the journey for residents looking to access faster and more reliable full fibre internet.
In a collaborative effort, CityFibre worked closely with major housing associations, including Places for People, Thirteen Group, and Sheffield City Council, to secure these wayleaves. The objective is to extend the benefits of full fibre connectivity to all members of the community, bridging the digital divide and making advanced digital infrastructure accessible to everyone.
Helen Ivison, Utility Infrastructure Manager at Places for People, emphasized the importance of digital inclusion, saying, “We know that fourteen million people in the UK have low digital capability, and closing the digital divide won’t be easy. But through partnerships and long-term commitments, like the one we have with CityFibre, we can help to close this gap and support our customers to thrive in our communities.”
Sanjay Sudra, Head of Wayleave Field Services at CityFibre, underlined the significance of accessible digital infrastructure, stating, “World-class digital infrastructure is no longer a luxury; it is now an essential utility that everyone needs to have access to. From managing household services and accessing employment to staying in touch with friends and family, rock-solid home broadband has never been more important.”
