Full fibre broadband arrives in Downpatrick

Full fibre broadband arrives in Downpatrick

5 October 2022

THOUSANDS of homes and businesses in the Downpatrick area will soon have full access to next generation broadband as part of a multi-million pound investment initiative.

Fibrus engineers have been working feverishly to already connect 3,000 homes and businesses in the Downpatrick area to provide access to next generation access gigabit capable broadband services.

And as the engineers continue their work on the broadband infrastructure programme, an additional 2,000 homes and businesses will have access to the high speed broadband by the end of October.

Fibrus, which specialises in full fibre broadband solutions for rural and regional communities, began its work in Downpatrick in April, with the new service going live last Friday.

The company has set out to transform broadband infrastructure locally, having already completed extensive works across over 160,000 premises across Northern Ireland.

Company chief operating officer, Shane Haslem, explained Fibrus was established to enhance the lives of those in rural areas.

He said that for too long, rural areas right across Northern Ireland have gone without quality connectivity services, despite being a hub for local businesses and family homes.

Mr Haslem explained that the need for a “meaningful online connection” was accelerated by the pandemic and continues to be a vital component of everyday life, especially for those living in digital darkness.

“Many people are continuing to work from home, albeit in a hybrid model,” the Fibrus official continued.

“Accessing schoolwork online has become the new norm and it goes without saying that we all enjoy watching our favourite films and shows on streaming platforms. That’s why access to high speed reliable broadband has become like any other utility for modern homes and businesses – it’s as essential as electricity and heating.”

Mr Haslem said the arrival of full fibre broadband in rural areas will “revolutionise” the way families and businesses go about their day-to-day lives.

“We are delighted to see more and more rural communities getting connected to our new transformative network.

“Fibrus will continue to address the digital imbalance in rural connectivity across Northern Ireland and we look forward to seeing more communities enjoying the benefits of our full fibre network,” he added

South Down MP Chris Hazzard has welcomed the broadband investment.

“It is fantastic to witness the work that Fibrus has carried out across the Downpatrick area,” he said.

“Providing rural areas with full fibre broadband will undoubtedly enhance the lives of local residents and businesses on a daily basis through access to a secure broadband connection.”

South Down MLA Patrick Brown said he is excited to see how Fibrus can positively impact Downpatrick and, in turn, an increasing number of regional and rural communities going forward as their plans to expand start coming into effect.

He added: “Investments such as this will undoubtedly help in the wider regeneration and development of our town, creating a place that is accessible and inclusive for all.”