Over 500 homes and businesses in the rural parts of Cushendall and the surrounding area are now connectable to next generation access (NGA) gigabit capable broadband services.
The new broadband infrastructure has been rolled out by Fibrus, Northern Ireland’s fastest growing telecoms provider which specialises in full fibre broadband solutions for rural and regional communities.
Fibrus began work in the rural parts of Cushendall in May this year, setting out to transform broadband infrastructure here, having already completed extensive works across over 160,000 premises right across Northern Ireland.
People living and working in the rural parts of Cushendall and the surrounding area can now access hyperfast full fibre broadband. Plans to make the town itself connectable are scheduled to commence next summer.
Explaining what this means for the people living and working in the area, Shane Haslem, Chief Operating Officer at Fibrus, said: “Fibrus was established to enhance the lives of those living in rural areas like those surrounding Cushendall. 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.”
Shane 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.
He said: “Many people are continuing to work from home, albeit in a hybrid model. Accessing schoolwork online has become the new norm and it goes without say that we all enjoy watching our favourite films and shows on streaming platforms. That’s why access to reliable broadband has become like any other utility for modern homes and businesses – it’s as essential as electricity and heating.
“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.”
Shane concluded: “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.”
Welcoming the development, North Antrim MP Ian Paisley said: “I am delighted with the work that Fibrus has carried out in the rural areas surrounding Cushendall. Providing rural areas with full fibre broadband will enhance the daily lives of local residents and businesses by giving them access to a reliable broadband connection.
“This rollout is part of a wider £165m investment across Northern Ireland aimed at delivering critical digital infrastructure that will help transform the broadband connectivity landscape.”
Councillor Margaret Anne McKillop said, “I am excited to see how Fibrus can positively impact an increasing number of rural communities going forward as their plans to expand start coming into effect. I look forward to seeing Cushendall itself being made connectable next year.”
Councillor Oliver McMullan voiced his support for the rollout.
“In this day, it is important that all households have the opportunity to access full fibre broadband services. Not only will this investment help local businesses, but it will also help to alleviate digital poverty in the area.”
To find out if you are connectable to Fibrus Hyperfast Fibre Broadband call 02890 993230 or visit www.fibrus.com.
