Hyperoptic brings gigabit fibre to four more English cities

Fibre cables

Hyperoptic is to rollout gigabit fibre to residents and businesses in Newcastle, Sheffield, Birmingham and Nottingham.

The company said its fibre to the premises (FTTP) network now reaches 75,000 premises across the UK. The firm already has networks in Bristol, Cardiff, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester and Reading.

Last month, it revealed plans to launch its network in Glasgow. The firm is aiming to reach half a million homes and businesses by 2018, offering speeds of 1,000Mbps.

The firm said the rapid increase was down to residents and business registering their interested in gigabit fibre via its website. Hyperoptic has also worked with developers and building management companies, to install its fibre infrastructure directly into their buildings. The firm touted partnerships with Barratt London, St George and Regis Group plc.

"Our mission is to provide a true fibre infrastructure, which empowers residents to future-proof their online lives. In today's age, broadband should be an enabler, not a hindrance. A fast, consistent, dependable fibre connection is now essential for entertainment, socialising and work," said Dana Tobak, Hyperoptic's managing director.

"With symmetrical gigabit speeds, you can be guaranteed that you can enjoy the best of what the internet has to offer."

Communications minister Ed Vaizey said the government was "fully aware of the tremendous contribution that companies such as Hyperoptic are making to the UK's Internet industry".

"Cutting-edge technology is the foundation for growth and innovation and today's announcement is fantastic news for Newcastle, Sheffield, Birmingham and Nottingham."

Hyperoptic recently raised 50 million from Quantum Strategic Partners, a private investment vehicle managed by Soros Fund Management, to finance its expansion plans. The firm has been most active in London where it has installed its gigabit broadband in central riverside apartments as well as developments near the M25.

Rene Millman

Rene Millman is a freelance writer and broadcaster who covers cybersecurity, AI, IoT, and the cloud. He also works as a contributing analyst at GigaOm and has previously worked as an analyst for Gartner covering the infrastructure market. He has made numerous television appearances to give his views and expertise on technology trends and companies that affect and shape our lives. You can follow Rene Millman on Twitter.