Work has started to connect Worthing town centre to ultrafast broadband technology that is set to deliver a huge economic boost to the area.
Adur & Worthing Councils are introducing a state-of-the-art Gigabit fibre internet service that will link all its 70-plus public buildings to benefit residents, schools, businesses and visitors by delivering speeds that are on average 10x faster than the current network.
The work is being carried out by CityFibre, which is replacing the outdated copper-based broadband network and replacing it with a high-tech optic one.
Once installed, the ultra-modern infrastructure will help the Councils deliver improved services and allow for future technologies such as electric vehicle smart meters and traffic management systems - while even being able to warn staff when waste bins are nearly full.
It is hoped the new network will attract more businesses and investment to the area, while also helping lower carbon emissions by reducing electricity demand and offering greater efficiency thanks to real-time monitoring.
Cllr Edward Crouch, Worthing Executive Member for Digital & Environmental Services, said:
“When the work is completed Worthing will benefit from ultrafast broadband. It is our goal to deliver a network that enables everyone to have access - as in this day-and-age, the need for powerful digital technology is important for both residents and businesses.
“This network will serve to future-proof the area by bringing in investment and attracting new talent, which will be a huge boost for the future economy of Worthing, as well as being hugely beneficial for work, study and recreation.”
There will be some unavoidable disruption during the works with digging and road closures, but the Council is working closely with West Sussex County Council to ensure this is kept to a minimum.
Digging ahead of the installation has begun in the town centre and is expected to carry on throughout the spring, at planned stages to minimise disruption. There are currently temporary traffic lights in place in Rowlands Road because of this, while work is also underway in Marine Parade, Chapel Road and Richmond Road.
There will also be works carried out in Union Place, Montague Street and the seafront during the spring. This is expected to be finished before the summer.
Adur & Worthing Councils will be working in partnership with West Sussex County Council to limit disruption by minimising the need to dig at different times.
Once CityFibre have connected the Council buildings, they will then install a new fibre infrastructure to businesses and homes as part of its wider commercial programme, eventually providing the region with one of the most technologically advanced networks in the country.
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