Ultrafast broadband upgrade for homes and businesses in Grangemouth
Openreach has confirmed the first 1,000 homes and businesses can now connect to its major new ultrafast broadband network for Grangemouth.
The once-in-a-generation, full fibre broadband upgrade will let thousands of local people connect multiple devices at gigabit-capable speeds and help businesses trade online and compete for decades to come.
Engineers started work in the town earlier this year and the build is expected to reach the majority of local homes and businesses.
Full fibre broadband provides more reliable, resilient and future-proof connectivity; with fewer faults; more predictable, consistent speeds and enough capacity to easily meet growing data demands.
Residents can enjoy a host of online services and entertainment, with seamless streaming and smooth online gaming. The technology also supports day-to-day, business critical tasks like video calls, banking and online customer interactions.
Openreach has already brought ultrafast full fibre broadband to more than 38,000 homes and businesses in the Falkirk area – however, just 26 per cent of those who could upgrade have done so, meaning thousands of people are missing out.
Local people can visit openreach.co.uk/ultrafastfullfibre to register for updates and, as the build progresses, check their addresses to see when services are available from their chosen provider.
Robert Thorburn, Openreach Partnership Director for Scotland, said: “We’re bringing ultrafast broadband to Grangemouth and want to let local people know what to expect.
“It’s a major infrastructure upgrade, so there will be more engineering teams, equipment and vans around the town, and we're working hard to keep disruption to a minimum.
“Wherever possible, we’ll use our existing network of ducts and poles to avoid roadworks, new street furniture and disturbance. But there may be places where we need to install new poles, underground ducts and fibre cables because it’s the only way to make sure some households get included in the upgrade.”
He added: “Grangemouth is part of our balanced build across urban and rural Scotland. We want to make sure that people in all parts of the country can be online effortlessly and build opportunities in their community. Connecting everyone in Scotland to our fastest and most reliable broadband would result in a multi-billion pound economic boost.”
Openreach’s new full fibre network in Scotland now reaches more than 1.3 million properties, and the company plans to roll out the new technology to 25 million homes and businesses by the end of 2026.
Openreach build partner Circet is helping to deliver the build in Grangemouth.
Alan O’Prey, Circet UK CEO, said: “We’re excited to collaborate with Openreach in enhancing broadband services for the residents and businesses of Grangemouth. The enthusiastic response from the community underscores the pressing need for faster and more reliable internet connectivity. Our teams will work diligently to minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth delivery of the new ultrafast broadband network. We extend our sincere gratitude to the community for their patience and unwavering support.”
