Openreach has initiated the construction of a cutting-edge ultrafast broadband network in Hartlepool, providing residents and businesses with access to some of the fastest and most reliable broadband services in Europe.
This transformative Full Fibre broadband upgrade represents a once-in-a-generation advancement, enabling local residents and businesses to connect multiple devices at gigabit-capable speeds. It also positions them to engage in online trade and competition for years to come.
Hartlepool’s Member of Parliament, Jill Mortimer, recently met with Openreach’s chief engineers to gain firsthand insight into the innovative engineering techniques driving ultrafast and ultra-reliable broadband delivery in her constituency. During her visit, she received a comprehensive update on the ongoing construction efforts, which have already extended to over 73,000 homes and businesses throughout County Durham, encompassing the first 6,000 homes and businesses in Hartlepool.
Mortimer expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “It was a pleasure to meet with Openreach and hear about the investment, jobs, and prosperity this initiative brings to Hartlepool. Not only does it provide ultrafast broadband to homes and businesses, but it also fosters connections within the community.”
Full Fibre broadband stands out for its enhanced reliability, resilience, and future-proof connectivity, offering fewer faults, more consistent speeds, and the capacity to accommodate expanding data demands.
This development will enable residents to access a wide range of online services and entertainment, including seamless streaming and uninterrupted online gaming experiences. Businesses can rely on the broadband for various day-to-day critical tasks, such as video conferencing, banking, and customer engagement via social media platforms.
Residents interested in tracking the progress of the build and checking the availability of services from their chosen provider can visit the Openreach website.
The visit to Hartlepool was facilitated by Robert Bates, Openreach’s local build manager. Bates remarked, “We embraced the opportunity to provide a step-by-step demonstration of our technology and offer insights into the construction process. Our local teams are dedicated to ensuring that communities across County Durham remain connected, and it was rewarding to discuss the challenges and realities of delivering this transformative infrastructure.”
Bates also emphasized Openreach’s commitment to minimizing disruption during this significant infrastructure upgrade. Where feasible, the company will leverage its existing network of ducts and poles to avoid roadworks and reduce disturbances. However, in some cases, the installation of new poles, underground ducts, and fibre cables will be necessary to ensure comprehensive inclusion in the upgrade.
Openreach’s ultrafast Full Fibre network in County Durham currently covers over 73,000 properties, extending its benefits to thousands of residents and businesses. The company also has plans for further investment in locations such as Bishop Auckland, Durham, Greatham, Sherburn Hill, Thornley, and West Auckland.
