The digital divide has long been a barrier to progress in Northern Ireland, particularly in rural areas, where broadband is often slow and unreliable.
As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace and we stand on the brink of the ‘Great Switch Off’, the need for enhanced broadband connectivity has never been more pressing.
So, what is being done to address Northern Ireland’s connectivity gap?
Thankfully, full fibre broadband provider Fibrus is making significant strides in this area as the contractor for the government’s ‘Project Stratum’, designed to extend Next Generation Access (NGA) broadband infrastructure across Northern Ireland.
With over 315,000 premises already connected, and ambitious plans to reach half a million homes within the next two years, the recent announcement of an additional £100 million in funding from existing lenders marks a pivotal moment for Northern Ireland’s digital future.
It is important to recognise that the impact of broadband network expansion goes far beyond individual households. Enhanced connectivity is the foundation upon which businesses, especially those in rural areas, can build their digital capabilities, future-proof their operations, and unlock new opportunities for growth.
As a locally-based service provider, b4b Group is proud to act as a key partner in our region’s transformation, leveraging our position as one of a small number of official resellers of Fibrus broadband in Northern Ireland to ensure that no community or business is left behind.
Our partnership with Fibrus allows us to not only resell broadband in Stratum intervention areas, but also to enhance these services with our diverse suite of business solutions designed to meet the needs of modern enterprises.
From business VoIP services to advanced cyber security measures and managed IT services, there are numerous resources available to help businesses make the most of their enhanced connectivity.
Thanks to efforts to provide fast, reliable, and affordable broadband to our hardest-to-reach areas, the pathway to a fully connected Northern Ireland seems clearer than ever.
Additionally, the expansion of Project Stratum, which has put the Stormont funding package for Fibrus close to £200 million, represents a significant investment in Northern Ireland’s future.
Connectivity is not just about faster internet speeds, it is about enabling businesses to compete on a global stage, empowering communities to access services and opportunities, and creating a more inclusive, prosperous Northern Ireland.
Together with Fibrus, we are excited to be at the forefront of this digital revolution, bringing the benefits of enhanced broadband to every corner of the region.
As we approach the milestone of half a million Northern Ireland properties being better connected, we are reminded of the power of partnership in achieving shared goals and creating a better future for all.
- David Armstrong is chief executive of the b4b Group
