‘Game-changing’ fibre rolled out to 60% of households
ABOUT 15,000 properties, some 60% of the island’s households, are now connected to Sure’s fibre network, with all island properties still on track to have fibre access by the end of 2025.
The £37.5m. project is currently being rolled out by Sure and the States, with 75% of island premises now able to access fibre connectivity and about 700 homes being added every month.
All homes, including landline-only customers, will need to switch to fibre by the end of 2026, when the existing copper network will be retired.
Sure Guernsey fibre programme director Richard Cartland said 15,000 properties equated to a 70% take-up of fibre, which was double the rate seen in the UK.
‘The demand for fibre is so high in Guernsey because fibre is faster and more resilient than the old network, there are no connection fees or additional monthly charges when switching to fibre, and it’s very straightforward to switch,’ he said.
‘We’re seeing that fibre broadband is a game-changer for residents and businesses, providing the speed and reliability needed for today’s digital world.’
The investment from Sure and the States has created 80 local jobs, while Sure has worked with seven additional local suppliers as part of the roll out.
Economic Development committee president Neil Inder said that reaching the point where every home had the option to switch to fibre would be a big achievement for Guernsey.
‘Fibre is essential to our competitiveness as a jurisdiction, and I look forward to the programme’s completion.’
