Last week [Tuesday 26 July] Sally-Ann opened a brand new and locally operated full fibre broadband network which has helped turn St. Leonards-on-Sea into a gigabit-town, one of the best connected in the country.
The area now has average download speeds over three times faster than delivered via the old copper network which is used by most homes, and the network was put into place by the Eastbourne-based AltNet Lightning Fibre. This follows the securement of a multi-million pound investment in 2020, and the company has taken an active ‘community-centric’ approach, including by supporting grassroots football teams like Hastings Athletic FC U10s.
With many households currently under financial pressure linked to the rising cost of living, this new network offers consumers another provider to choose from. Studies have also shown that full fibre optic networks support lower greenhouse gas emissions and promotes wider access to employment and education.
Commenting on the network, Sally-Ann said:
“The Government’s manifesto commitment to deliver nationwide gigabit-broadband with £5 billion of investment, leveraging in further investment by private companies such as Lightning Fibre, is fundamental for better local connectivity and economic growth.
Lightning Fibre is a locally based company and its investment in Hastings and St. Leonards means the creation of more jobs and inward investment. I am happy to support Lightning Fibre as they help to rollout Full Fibre across East Sussex and beyond.”