Eastbourne-based alternative network operator and ISP Lightning Fibre, which has deployed a gigabit speed Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) broadband network across parts of Sussex and Kent in England, have today signed a wholesale agreement that will enable them to sell packages via Cityfibre’s network too. But initial coverage will be limited.
CityFibre currently aspires to cover up to 8 million UK premises with their new FTTP network (funded by c.£2.4bn in equity, c.£4.9bn debt and c.£800m of BDUK subsidy) – across over 285 cities, towns and villages (c.30% of the UK). But it remains unclear precisely when this will be achieved. The original goal was for the end of 2025, although their current build + M&A plan may get them up to c.6m (if it all goes well).
The latest addition to the aforementioned ISPs will be Lightning Fibre, which plans to harness Cityfibre’s network, albeit initially only in the Brighton & Hove and Worthing areas. The move is clearly intended to complement their own FTTP build in the same region.
Stefan Stanislawski, CEO of Lightning Fibre, said:
“Customers across Eastbourne, Hastings, Heathfield and Hailsham are already making the most of hyper fast full fibre broadband from Lightning Fibre, and now even more homes and businesses will be able to choose Lightning Fibre’s award-winning broadband as a result of this wholesale deal. We’re delighted to join forces with CityFibre and intend to develop and nurture a very close and effective working relationship.”
At present it’s unclear whether LF will adopt the same package details and costs as they currently offer in the new CF covered areas, although we are checking and will report back.