UK's Fastest Broadband Heading to Ayrshire

Openreach brings 'UK fastest broadband' to more than 20,000 homes and businesses around Kilmarnock.

09:08 12 November 2020

Openreach has confirmed that some of the "fastest, most reliable broadband anywhere in the UK" is now available to more than 20,000 homes and businesses around Kilmarnock. The firm, which is a functional division of telecommunications BT plc, continued to build the town's new gigabit-capable network throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. 

 

Crosshouse, Kilmaurs, Knockentiber and other locations across Kilmarnock are now able to upgrade to the service. Meanwhile, next-generation full fibre networks are being planned for other 23 towns and villages, including Auchinleck, Cumnock, Dalmellington, Gaston, Holmhead, Netherthird and Stewarton. 

 

Katie Milligan, Openreach managing director, said: “As well as keeping the existing network running, we’ve continued building full fibre throughout the pandemic to make sure that, no matter what happens next, our network is there to support local families and businesses.

 

“We’ve made great progress in Kilmarnock, with 20,000 households now able to order an ultra-reliable, gigabit-capable service. The first customers have already connected and I’d urge everyone to check their options for upgrading now.

 

“Our investment will boost local businesses, support Kilmarnock’s economy and be brilliant for households juggling work and home life. We’re working hard to extend our build to as many local homes and businesses as possible and engineers will continue work in the town over the next few months.”

 

Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: “Kilmarnock is leading the way for ultrafast, future-proof, full fibre broadband, with almost 20,000 homes and businesses in the local area now able to upgrade.

 

“Due to the pandemic, many of our residents are working from home. Access to faster, reliable broadband is essential to ensure that vital services continue to be delivered to communities and that local people can access essential services and items online.

 

“I look forward to more positive news as the build continues and to working with local communities to explore how we can make the most of East Ayrshire’s new, resilient technology.”