Shropshire set for broadband revolution with £24m boost! Thousands of homes and businesses in North Shropshire are about to get a mega upgrade to lightning-fast full-fibre broadband, thanks to a blockbuster £24 million government contract awarded to Freedom Fibre.
Gigabit Speeds for Over 12,000 Premises
Freedom Fibre will roll out state-of-the-art full-fibre broadband to 12,038 homes and businesses across North Shropshire. This major switch from ageing copper lines to cutting-edge fibre will smash slow internet and open doors to better-paid jobs and fresh opportunities.
Backing from the Top
Minister for Data and Digital Infrastructure, Sir John Whittingdale, said: “Thanks to £24 million in government support, thousands of rural homes and businesses across North Shropshire will benefit from Freedom Fibre’s lightning-fast, reliable broadband.”
“Delivering the Prime Minister’s priority to grow the economy, Project Gigabit is equipping regions like North Shropshire with state-of-the-art connectivity infrastructure and preparing them for the digital age, ushering in a new wave of opportunity and economic growth.”
Local Investment and Green Initiatives
Freedom Fibre isn’t just about fast internet. They’re pumping thousands into social and environmental projects through their ‘Freedom Fund’, supporting community-led green initiatives across North Shropshire. The firm will also collaborate with internet providers and local authorities, using existing underground ducts and overhead poles to keep disruption minimal.
Freedom Fibre CEO Neil McArthur said: “We are delighted to be selected to deliver the latest full fibre broadband technology as part of the North Shropshire Gigabit project. Freedom Fibre is already delivering these services to rural homes and businesses across North West Shropshire and is pleased to be expanding our services to 12,038 homes and businesses in North Shropshire.”
“The project forms part of the government’s initiative to ensure a UK-wide rollout of full fibre to replace ageing copper networks. Investing £24m in the latest fibre technology, the project will end over 100 years of copper-based services and enable the delivery of high-speed full fibre to the UK.”
“Freedom Fibre is a network builder and will be working with several internet service providers and the local authorities over the next few years. Wherever possible we will be using existing underground ducts and overhead poles to minimise disruption.”
Shropshire Council Welcomes Upgrade
Councillor Robert Macey, Shropshire Council cabinet member for Culture and Digital, said: “This £24m investment is great news for communities and businesses in Shropshire as gigabit-capable broadband further enhances our ability to be a digital county. Improved digital infrastructure remains a top priority for Shropshire Council given its significant economic and social benefits and we look forward to seeing Freedom Fibre progress this exciting infrastructure project.”
“In addition, Freedom Fibre has committed to deliver significant Social Value through the contract; examples include upskilling and employing local people, tree planting schemes, and a £25,000 Freedom Fund for local community projects.”
Note: The exact number of premises reached may vary due to detailed planning and technical factors during the project.
