VolkerHighways’ telecoms division ramps up pace on Maidenhead fibre rollout contract
VolkerHighways has ramped up works on its fibre rollout contract in Maidenhead, as the business continues to install full-fibre, future-proofing internet connectivity for homes and businesses across the town, on behalf of CityFibre.
The project began in 2021 and is due to complete in October 2023. The contract involves excavating 129,000 metres of trench to install ducting, before blowing, splicing and finally testing the fibre optic cables.
So far, the contract has excavated and reinstated 75,000 metres of trench and passed almost 9,000 properties, enabling these homes and businesses to upgrade their current broadband to faster, more reliable internet. Services are available from TalkTalk, with more broadband providers expected to join the network soon.
The business is providing a full turnkey solution from exchange to property boundaries, including all civils and fibre works. The team is using a hybrid installation solution which includes building both new underground trench duct networks and overhead infrastructure, as well as using existing infrastructure. This combined installation will provide a faster and more efficient delivery.
The business is also delivering a fibre rollout contract in Bracknell. Initially, the two contracts were being delivered together; however, to offer a better service to the client and residents, the projects have now been split. VolkerHighways has multiple civils, fibre and PIA gangs working directly on the rollout programme in Maidenhead, providing jobs in the local community.
On Friday, MP Theresa May visited the project for a walk out to learn more about the project and the enhanced digital platform full fibre will bring to Maidenhead.
Neil Madle, Maidenhead area manager for CityFibre, said: “Full fibre has the potential to truly transform the digital capabilities of Maidenhead. We’re extremely proud of our rollout and the £14m investment we are making here, and we look forward to seeing how it will benefit residents and businesses in the coming years.”
Greg Kunikov, operations director for VolkerHighways, said: “The team is working hard to deliver the rollout in line with the project plan, ensuring we reduce disruption to residents. Full fibre is essential as people continue to work from home and there is a growing requirement for digital infrastructure to enable significant growth in towns and cities across the UK.”