Thanks to LilaConnect for submitting this article! They are currently working on setting up a super fast broadband network in Leek. Read all the details below:

Specialist broadband company LilaConnect has started construction of a new full fibre network in Leek. Once completed it will provide 11,750 homeowners and businesses with lightning-fast, stable internet connections. It's expected that the first homes will be able to connect to this new network by June 2022. With all homes and businesses across the market town being able to have access to this gigabit full fibre network by the end of 2022. LilaConnect builds FTTP networks (fibre-to-the-premises) where its fibre optic cables are laid all the way from the signal source directly into the property. This differs from most other major network operators who combine a blend of copper and fibre optic cables often shared between homes and businesses. As a result, signal strength is potentially reduced, causing slow internet speeds, and dropped connections. The LilaConnect full fibre network is different from most other networks in the UK, in that it is truly 'Open Access'. Once the fibre optic cable is laid and the premises connected, subscribers can take control of their connection and choose from a range of partner ISPs (Internet Service Providers) or take their broadband service directly from LilaConnect. There's also the opportunity to add telephone services too without the need to create bundle packages to secure the best level discounts. The 'direct' full fibre solution gives greater stability reducing the chance for a dropped connection, but it's the speed and capacity of the service that's most impressive. Customers who sign-up for an internet service can receive incredibly fast upload and download speeds - up to 1Gbps (Gigabit per second) each way simultaneously. If you're wondering what that looks like, if you're currently paying for a 60 Mbps connection, a 12GB HD movie might take around 25 minutes to download. A 1Gbps service would do the same job in under 2 minutes.

The common problem of slow internet and buffering when multiple devices are being used at the same time, no longer exists with full fibre broadband. Whether someone is trying to work from home whilst their kids are doing their schoolwork, streaming films, or online gaming, all can be enjoyed at the same time. Not only is service performance exceptional but the pricing of service options from 250Mbps up to 1Gpbs is extraordinarily competitive.

Brett Shepherd, Managing Director at LilaConnect commented: "Accelerated by the global pandemic, a stable and secure broadband connection has become an essential utility for homes and businesses alike. Both families and individuals have turned to technology and internet connectivity to support their needs to work and/or learn from home. Overall, internet usage has also become much more than just streaming video and music or online shopping, it's also about transforming communities with improvements such as better access to employment, education, and healthcare. This has been evident in Stoke-on-Trent, and as such, I'd encourage everyone who can, to switch to the new technology and take advantage of the many benefits that full fibre brings."

LilaConnect is committed to long-term investment in Leek and will provide a huge, long-term boost for its local economy. Aligned with its other full fibre projects across the UK, LilaConnect is putting community interest at the forefront of its operations.

Leek residents and business owners will undoubtedly be affected whilst the fibre optic cables are being laid, but LilaConnect will make it an absolute priority to ensure that work is carried out as quickly and efficiently as possible. Dedicated cleaning teams are employed to thoroughly sweep, and jet wash pavements and driveways once reinstated tarmac has settled. In addition, the LilaConnect Clean-Up team will be deployed to wash windows and cars too. Litter pickers will be out and about to make sure that everything is looking clean and tidy during the dig project, and the Community Engagement and Sales teams will be on-hand to meet with residents, to answer any questions about the project.

This forms part of an ambitious rollout programme across the UK, which includes cities and towns such as Stoke-on-Trent, Crewe, Nantwich, Bristol, Uttoxeter and Colchester to name a few – with more to follow in 2022.

Residents and businesses interested in connecting to the new LilaConnect full fibre network can register their interest at www.lilaconnect.co.uk .

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